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Healing through art— |
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Art Therapy/Expressive Arts Workshops |
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Making choices about colors and materials in art can help an individual to make choices about issues of living. |
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Art Therapy and Expressive Art Workshops Mia de Bethune, MA, ATR-BC, LCAT |
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What is art therapy?: The therapeutic use of art making within a professional relationship, by people who experience illness, trauma, and challenges in life, and by people who seek personal growth. By creating art and reflecting upon their art and the process of making it, people can increase awareness of self and others, cope with symptoms, stress, and traumatic memory; enhance cognitive ability; and enjoy the life-affirming joys of creation. * What is an art therapist?: Art therapists are professionals trained in both art and therapy. They have knowledge of human development, psychological theories, clinical practice, spiritual, multi-cultural, and artistic traditions, as well as the healing potential of art. They use art in treatment, assessment, and research, and provide consultation to allied professionals. Art therapists provide services to people of all ages in numerous settings from psychiatric to open studio. * How do expressive art workshops differ from art therapy?: Expressive art workshops offer art experiences that are non-value based and non-judgmental. Emphasis is placed upon the process of art making and the personal growth experienced rather than the end product, critiques or grades. Products are, however celebrated and potentially displayed as a way to promote growth and self-esteem. Relationship of the group leader is that of mentor and spiritual guide rather than as clinical therapist as in art therapy. Expressive arts are appropriate for all types of groups: pre-schools, nursing homes, museums, adolescents, artists, etc... How can art therapy/expressive arts help me?: Whether you are an artist experiencing a creative block or a young child with school phobia, art therapy can enable the release of hidden feelings through non-verbal expression. Often our most difficult feelings are too hard to express with words. Through art making feelings can be seen visually and felt tangibly. Once revealed in this way emotional problems may be discussed and possibly worked through. You do not need to be artistically gifted to engage in art therapy or expressive art workshops. A nonjudgmental approach allows you to explore in what ways you are naturally creative and help you to grow into a better understanding of yourself and your world. Mia de Bethune is an artist, licensed creative arts therapist, and registered, board certified art therapist living in the lower Hudson Valley. She will work with you to provide the right kind of art therapy or expressive arts experience for your needs. *Definition from the American Art Therapy Association
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145 Palisade Street, Room 402 Dobbs Ferry, NY 10522 |
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Phone: 914-584-1820 Fax: 914-478-4707 E-mail: mdebethune@gmail.com |
