What is art therapy?
Art therapy integrates psychotherapy (talk therapy) with the creative process to improve and enhance mental and emotional well-being of individuals of all ages. Art therapy uses creative ways to express thoughts, feelings and emotions. The process of working with art materials and then reflecting on the images assists in developing self-awareness, facilitates personal growth, and helps cope with everyday issues.
Who can benefit from art therapy?
Individuals of any age, gender or culture can benefit from art therapy. Children, teens, adults, seniors, couples and families may achieve beneficial results from the therapeutic nature of the creative process.
Do I need any experience with art?
You do not need any art experience, skills or talent to benefit from art therapy. The focus of art therapy is not on the artistic quality of the images, but rather on being able to freely express your inner world using the art materials.
What happens during an art therapy session?
Although each session varies with the needs of the client, it usually involves making art followed by a sensitive exploration of the images, the experience of making it, and new emotional connections that may have emerged during the creative process.
Does the therapist interpret my art?
Art is an outward projection of inner experiences and therefore there is no place for interpretation by anyone but the person who created the images. The therapist may point out themes, visual elements and patterns that emerge through your art. However any attempt to analyze the artwork should be led by the client according to his/her needs and pace, when the therapist carefully and respectfully supports this process.
What kind of art materials would I use in art therapy?
Basic art supplies include markers, tempera paint, pastels, clay, and collage materials. At the Muse we believe the more choices of materials, the more accurate the creative expression could be. Therefore we also offer endless choices of non-traditional plastic art materials that can serve the artwork: recycled and found objects, materials from nature, industrial junk, odds and ends of all sorts and so on. What can be done with the art materials is left up to the client’s choice, imagination and needs. Some clients also like to integrate music, movement, drama and creative writing while expressing themselves and exploring their inner world.
How long is a typical session?
Individual sessions are typically 50 minutes, but may be extended with prior discussion with the therapist. Group sessions are 90 minutes.
What do I need to bring to my session?
Nothing. All art supplies are provided and are included in the cost of the session. You may choose to bring with you anything that could help you with expressing/ communicating yourself.
What if I don’t want to make art?
That’s absolutely fine. The therapy sessions are geared toward your comfort level so you can make as little or as much art as you like. We are also trained in counseling and traditional talk therapy.
How do I know if art therapy is right for me?
Only you can decide if art therapy is right for you. If you have any further questions, please call for a free phone consultation.
How many sessions will I need?
Since therapy is such a personal experience, the therapist and you will discuss your goals for therapy before timeline is assessed. Each client’s needs and experiences in therapy are unique and specific, and so is the time needed to meet the client’s goals.
I’m interested in art therapy, where do I begin?
Contact us to arrange a free 30-minute phone consultation or to book your first appointment. Most first appointments can be booked within a few days.