What is Art Therapy?

Art therapy, as defined by the American Art Therapy Association, allows for creative expression that can overcome the limitations of language. In other words, if an idea or emotion is too difficult, confusing, or painful to be said, written, or signed, then maybe drawing, painting, sculpting, coloring, sewing, collaging, and many other methods of visual art can surpass the stumbling block of language.

Its potential applications can help improve areas of deficit like:

• Cognition and sensory-motor function;

• Self-esteem and self-awareness;

• Emotional resilience;

• Insight;

• Social skills;

• Conflicts and distress (About Art Therapy, 2017).