 |
|
|
|
|
Art Therapy
What is art therapy?
Art therapy at its simplest is a therapeutic modality in which art is used to help people. Art is a powerful nonverbal language that can help people gain insight into issues and lead to personal growth. Art can connect thoughts, feelings, and perceptions with reality and experience, and helps us understand who we are. Art therapy can be used, either individually or in groups, to help people deal with such major life events as loss, illness, trauma, and aging, or to explore goals, career choices, and purpose.
Who can do art therapy?
Everyone! No previous art experience is necessary - in fact, it is often difficult for artists to do art therapy because of preconceived notions about art and learned rules about how to make "good" art.
What happens in a typical session?
Generally, sessions last about an hour and take place in a nurturing environment set up with art supplies, a table, and chairs. Clients usually choose what they want to do and whether to draw, paint, or work with clay. The client and therapist will look at the work together when it is finished. The therapist will ask questions about the work and what various images, colours or shapes mean to the client. Art therapists may give clients directions or ask them to do specific exercises.
What kind of training does an art therapist have?
Art therapists complete a degree in fine art or psychology, followed by at least two years of post-graduate work leading to a masters degree or diploma in art therapy. Training includes courses in psychology and art therapy, extensive practical work with clients in clinical settings, and a thesis. After graduation, art therapists do further paid clinical work in the field in order to qualify for registration in the Canadian Art Therapy Association and/or provincial art therapy associations.
Will OHIP pay for therapy?
No, but some private and supplemental insurance plans may partially reimburse fees. Fees may also be deductible from income tax. |
|
|
|
