What is Art Psychotherapy?

Art Psychotherapy (Art Therapy) is a state registered (HCPC) psychological therapy that uses art media and the process of art-making as its primary form of communication. It is not dependent on spoken language and the process is explosive, playful and creative, therefore Art Psychotherapy is a more accessible approach to engage with difficult emotions, especially for those that struggle to verbalise and make sense of their feelings and emotions.

Do I need to have any special skill in art to participate in Art Psychotherapy? Absolutely not – you are free to make anything that provides a more tangible and immediate way to express feelings and emotions. The aim is to release creativity, ease distress, discover new insights, increase awareness and self-understanding, and/or cope with trauma. It is a supportive experience and the content of the sessions, as well as the artwork, is kept safe and confidential.

Today, Art Psychotherapy is not only an effective therapy for emotional difficulties but it is also something people are turning to for personal and creative development. Recently it has been attracting people who simply want to have a pleasurable and insightful experience. You don’t have to have psychological problems to benefit from Art Psychotherapy. It is life enhancing for people of all ages and all walks of life.

Typically, an individual session will be 50 minutes and will involve some talking and thinking together about the art making and the art making process. Group sessions are between 1 and 1.5 hours. This can be an open-ended therapy to meet the needs of the individual or group.