What is
Art Therapy? Art
Therapy is a human service profession used in many clinical settings from schools and after-school programs, to specialized
facilities. Based in theories of human and psychological development, it offers a means of personal expression to communicate
feelings through anon-verbal, visually creative process.
Creative Arts Therapy for Children
Art Therapy uses children's natural curiosity
and excitement in the exploration of art materials, to aid in their personal development in a holistic and integrative way.
From the child's early drawings to complex pictures, the creation of art is the product of the child's own voice.
With gentle guidance and help, each child develops his or her own way of seeing and communicating with others through the
artwork.
Supported by the Art Therapist, the child is able to grow both creatively and emotionally, and this
can carry over to all areas in the child's life; from fine-motor development and cognitive capability, to emotional maturation
and healthy socialization. Unlike the child's experience of art in the context of art education, Expressive Art is centered
on the child, and focuses on the process of artmaking instead of the product.
Expressive Arts Therapy Session
The child will explore
a variety of art and craft media as he/she gets involved in open-ended activities to stimulate creativity, cognitive functioning,
motor coordination, socialization, and self-esteem. As the sessions progress, some projects may carry over from week to week,
and collaborative art experiences will be introduced. Sessions may include movement, music, poetry, children's yoga, guided
imagery and mediation.
