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Ready to dive into the colorful world of art therapy? Let's explore different ways art can heal and transform.

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Your Ray ID for this request is 8b42547f3b004398

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Assoc. Prof. Dr. Thuhairah Hasrah Abdul Rahman

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Assoc. Prof. Dr. Thuhairah Hasrah Abdul Rahman

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Supervisor of Group Elective 28

Assoc. Prof. Dr. Thuhairah Hasrah Abdul Rahman

Professional Registration Numbers:

NSR No: 133408

Specialty: Chemical Pathology

Qualifications:

MBCHB, Otago University New Zealand, 2000

Master of Pathology (Chemical Pathology), Universiti Malaya Malaysia, 2009

Places of Practice:

Universiti Teknologi MARA (UITM)

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National Specialist Register of Malaysia

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Art therapy is like unlocking your inner artist to heal your heart.

It's where colors, shapes, and textures become your language for expressing what words can't say. Imagine painting your worries away or sculpting your way to a calmer mind. That's the magic of art therapy! It's a fun and creative adventure that helps you discover yourself, connect with others, and feel happier and healthier.

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Q&A Session with Art therapist & Psychiatrist

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Q&A Session with Art therapist & Psychiatrist

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Join us for an inspiring Q&A session with an art therapist and a psychiatrist as we dive into the healing power of creativity and mental health.

Discover how art therapy bridges emotions and wellbeing, blending the beauty of expression with psychological insights. Whether you're curious about mental health or the magic of art, this conversation will open your eyes to new perspectives. Let’s explore the colorful world where art meets the mind! 🎨🧠

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Panduan Dan Arahan Melukis Art-Drawing-House Tree Person (AD-HTP)

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PANDUAN DAN ARAHAN MELUKIS ART DRAWING - HOUSE TREE PERSON (AD-HTP)

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Bagaimana Saringan kesihatan mental melalui lukisan projektif AD-HTP?

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BAGAIMANA SARINGAN KESIHATAN MENTAL MELALUI LUKISAN PROJEKTIF AD-HTP ?

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Art Session with kids From Al-Fatih Pre-school

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Art Session with kids From Al-Fatih Pre-school

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Our goal is to create a fun, welcoming space where kids can explore art and express feelings that are hard to put into words. By making creativity enjoyable, we’re giving them a unique way to share what’s on their minds!

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APLIKASI LUKISAN AD-HTP BAGI GURU FAHAMI MURID SEMASA PDPR

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APLIKASI LUKISAN AD-HTP BAGI GURU FAHAMI MURID SEMASA PDPR

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WEBINAR APLIKASI LUKISAN AD-HTP BAGI GURU MEMAHAMI MURID SEMASA PDPR DALAM SITUASI PANDEMIK COVID-19Bersama: Prof MAS Positive (UPSI)Anjuran: Institut Pend…

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How Does Art Therapy Heal the Soul? | The Science of Happiness

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How Does Art Therapy Heal the Soul? | The Science of Happiness

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How Does Art Therapy Heal the Soul? | The Science of Happiness

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Art therapy is for everyone, not just artists.

Whether you're dealing with big life challenges or just the daily grind, picking up a paintbrush or pencil can be a game-changer. It's not about creating masterpieces; it's about expressing yourself freely and finding peace. Art therapy can help you manage stress, process emotions, and even heal from trauma. So, next time you feel overwhelmed, give it a try. You might be surprised at how calm and clear-headed you feel afterward.

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TBI Awareness: The Benefits of Art Therapy

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Art Therapy for Mental Illness | Your Story

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Two Ways to Art Your Feelings Out

1. Do Your Self Art:

This is like having a secret diary but with colors and shapes instead of words. You draw, paint, or sculpt whatever pops into your head. It's your personal art adventure! 🎨

2. Team Up with an Art Therapist:

Imagine having a super cool art buddy who helps you understand the hidden messages in your artwork. They're like a detective, but with paintbrushes! Together, you uncover your feelings and learn to feel better. 🔍🎨

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Art therapy is a treatment approach that integrates psychotherapeutic techniques with the creative process to improve well-being. Learn more about art therapy.

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What Is Art Therapy? Types, Benefits And More

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What Is Art Therapy? Types, Benefits And More

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Feel free to click on the link!

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What Is Art Therapy?

"Art therapy is a practice that uses art as a tool to facilitate healing," says Shaye Mueller, LPC, a registered art therapist based in Chicago. Art therapy provides an opportunity for people to express their internal feelings and experiences in a physical way, she explains. "[Someone] may find that describing an emotion becomes easier when expressed by assigning it artistic qualities," says Mueller. "This is because language processing, creative thinking and emotional processing all involve different parts of the brain. Art therapy helps integrate these brain structures to help bridge the gaps between these processes, leading to what some art therapists believe is a more intuitive and holistic outcome."

Art therapy has a different goal than taking an art class, says Emily Davenport, MA,, a board-certified art therapist and the founder and clinical director of Davenport Creative Arts Therapy, located in New York City. "With an art class, the focus is on technique. With art therapy, the purpose is not to create a perfect art product. It's to explore how the art relates to oneself, what someone is feeling and what they want to heal," she explains.

In terms of what to expect during an art therapy session, typically, the client creates their art in the presence of the therapist, but the therapist asks minimal questions while the art is being created, says Davenport. Instead, they are using this time to observe. "As an art therapist, I observe what their body language is like when creating their art. I look to see if they are pressing down really hard on the art materials or if they are holding them lightly. I observe if they are using colors and if so, what colors they choose. All of these things can communicate something deeper about the client," she says.

After the art is completed, the therapist and the client will have a conversation about it, gently exploring what the art communicates about what the client may be feeling. "The art provides a non-confrontational way to communicate about an experience or what someone is feeling," she says.

How Is Art Therapy Used?

There are several ways art therapy is used. Often, says Davenport, it is combined with other types of therapy, such as cognitive behavioral therapy or eye movement desensitization and reprocessing (EMDR) therapy. For example, one session may primarily focus on creating art while another session does not include any art creation at all.

"Memories and trauma are stored in a different part of the brain than [verbal language]," says Davenport, adding that this is why talk therapy on its own may not be as beneficial for people who have experienced trauma as when it's combined with art therapy. If someone is in therapy with the goal of healing from past trauma, creating art can help them tap into the part of the brain where these memories are stored, she says.

Art therapy can be used as a way for people to express their feelings and experiences who do not communicate well verbally. Children, for example, may not yet have the skills to put their experiences or feelings into words, but they can use art as a form of expression. On the other end of the spectrum, art therapy can also be used in elderly populations to promote healthy aging. The problem solving involved in creating art (such as choosing colors and compositional elements) keeps the brain active.

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Who Can Benefit From Art Therapy?

Anyone can benefit from art therapy, according to Mueller and Davenport, and you don't have to have any artistic skill to do it. "A common misconception is that art therapy is [only] for 'creatives' or children. That could not be farther from the truth. It is for all, regardless of age, ability or demographic," says Mueller.

Art therapy has been shown to be effective for people experiencing depression or anxiety. According to researchers, the process of creating art helps with emotion regulation, which in turn can help lower anxiety.

Art therapy can be especially beneficial for people who have experienced trauma, including individuals with post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), Davenport emphasizes. One study found that people with PTSD who participated in art therapy were better able to relax, externally communicate their memories and emotions through their art, had less intrusive thoughts and felt more confident about their futures.

Art therapy can also be beneficial for people with cancer. In one study, art therapy helped people with cancer feel less anxious, less depressed and even less physical pain. The reason why it may help with alleviating physical pain is because it moves one's focus away from their pain and to their art. Art therapy can also be relaxing, which also may help with pain relief.

As previously mentioned, art therapy can also be beneficial for children, especially young children who may lack the language skills to communicate their feelings or experiences verbally. Art therapy has been found to have positive mental health benefits on children, including helping them with self-expression, feeling safe, feeling empowered, having hope and optimism for the future. It also helps them express complex feelings.

What Are Types of Art Therapy?

Since art therapy is tailored to meet an individual's needs, it can take many forms and approaches, including both the type of art that is used and how it is woven into one's therapy experience as a whole. "Art therapy falls under the umbrella of the expressive therapies and can be differentiated into two categories," says Mueller. "The first is art as therapy, meaning that the act of artistic self-expression is inherently therapeutic and can act as a vehicle for catharsis and mindfulness. The other category is art with psychotherapy where art is used in conjunction with traditional therapy methods to facilitate healing."

Below are the most common types of modalities used in art therapy:

1. Painting, Drawing, Coloring or Finger Painting

With this type of art therapy, clients can use different types of paints, colored pencils, markers, pens or pencils as a form of expression. Davenport says that, typically, a client is given a prompt and then given the freedom to create using the materials provided by the therapist.

2. Collage

With collage art therapy, clients use photos to create art that reflects their emotions or life experiences. The collages are made out of magazine images, textured papers and other materials provided by the therapist and clients piece these elements together with glue or tape to create their art.

3. Photography

An art therapist may ask their client to take photos that reflect their emotions or experiences. For example, in one study, trans-identifying individuals were asked to photograph their gender stories, which were then used as a way to spark discussions about their experiences. In another study, people with a chemical dependency used photography as part of an outpatient treatment program.

4. Sculpting and Working With Clay

Clay is another medium that can be used in art therapy. In one study, people with dementia used clay to make art representing what it was like to live with dementia.

How Effective Is Art Therapy?

Because art therapy is so individualized and is often used in conjunction with other types of therapy, there isn't a wealth of data devoted to how effective it is compared to other types of therapy, explains Davenport. However, she does note the mounting scientific evidence showing its benefits. "There is research showing that art therapy can help reduce cortisol levels, which then lessen feelings of stress and anxiety," she says.

As mentioned previously, there is also evidence that art therapy can help people who have experienced trauma, including children who have been sexually abused and people with combat-related PTSD. It has also been shown to help people who experience depression or anxiety.

However, to experience the benefits of art therapy, it's important to work with a credible art therapist.

If art therapy does not resonate with someone, there are other expressive therapies they could explore, including writing therapy or dance and music therapy. The goal is to express and process one's emotions and inner world through the creative medium, and that can look different from one person to the next. Therapy using writing prompts or journaling, dance as a way to express how one feels and music therapy, which is when music is used specifically to lower anxiety, depression or physical pain can all be beneficial.

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How to Find an Art Therapist

To find a credible art therapist, both Davenport and Mueller say to look for someone with the credentials to back up their expertise-just as you would any other type of therapist. "Art therapists are master level psychotherapists trained in art therapy and psychotherapy," explains Davenport, adding that they go through rigorous training to attain their credentials.

Look for a therapist with the credentials ATR (art therapist registered) or ATR-BC (board-certified art therapist registered). There are many local chapters of art therapy organizations, says Davenport, so you can search online for a trained professional in your area. Not sure where to start? The Art Therapy Association has an online database of art therapists across the U.S.

"Among many things, art therapy can help individuals problem solve, improve relationships, find deeper meaning in life, feel a sense of accomplishment and increase insight into their problems," Mueller says. Like art itself, these benefits can last a lifetime.

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What Is Art Therapy? Types, Benefits And More

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What Is Art Therapy? Types, Benefits And More

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Using various mediums like acrylics, watercolors, or oils to express emotions and thoughts.

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Many people wonder where art therapy comes from and what its benefits are. You might also wonder what would be the best approach for someone who has never drawn or painted in their life? And where to start?

Art therapy is about using art as a therapeutic tool to heal psychological disorders, fears, personal blocks, past traumas and other disorders.

But beyond the purely therapeutic objectives, art therapy is a technique for personal development, self-awareness and emotional expression. It is therefore not necessary to suffer from any psychological disorder, but simply to feel the need to explore oneself through art.

If art therapy was first used for purely therapeutic purposes, it has now broadened its scope...

In this article, we will discover what art therapy is as well as simple, fun, enriching and very effective methods to put in place for your well-being.

Enjoy your reading,

Art therapy

Human beings have used art as a means of expression even before the appearance of verbal language. Art is a different way to dive into ourselves, to explore our deepest self. It has an integrating effect on the human being since it contemplates the mental, emotional, physical and spiritual parts.

Its origins go back to the time of the cavemen. Already at that time, human beings created artistic expressions that represented their way of life, their customs, by capturing their images and perceptions on the walls of caves. Since then, art has been a tool through which man expresses himself, connects to his being, expresses his feelings and thus relieves his physical, emotional or spiritual pain.

Later, in classical antiquity, the therapeutic properties of art and the benefits of its practice for the general balance of the human being and the elevation of consciousness were discovered. By regaining harmony between body and mind through learning the crafts, these people were brought back into harmony with their inner selves and with the rest of society.

Healing through art

But it was in the 19th century that a group of European psychiatrists began to take an interest in the artistic productions of the mentally ill. Particularly noteworthy at that time was the contribution of Hans Prinzhorn, a Viennese psychiatrist, who considered creative motivation to be a fundamental motivation of the human species and that all creation had a self-healing potential.

Later, in the 20th century, art therapy became institutionalized as a profession, taking two schools of thought as references: psychoanalysis and art education. Around the 1940s, it began to be practiced on the basis of the therapeutic outcome of creative activity. Therefore, the fathers of art therapy are considered to be Jung, Freud and Steiner. The contributions of Winnicott, Kramer and Gombrich are also relevant.

The influence of the Gestalt school is particularly important, when Fritz Perls gave a new direction to humanistic psychology. Gestalt therapy focuses more on process than on content. It focuses on what is happening, rather than what was, could have been, could be or should be.

How does art therapy work?

Through different artistic manifestations: painting, theater, modeling, collage, dance, writing, music, etc., we express what we keep within us. Our conflicts, our fears, our anxieties, our needs, our frustrations, our desires, our dreams... come to the surface when we let ourselves be carried away by the work we represent.

In Gestalt art therapy, no one other than the author interprets the work. The therapist offers a series of instructions or directions and exercises to do, but it is the person who knows what their work means, whether the results are then shared with the therapist or with the group.

It is therefore important that the work takes place without talking, that there are no external interruptions that can take the artist out of connection with the task. It is through the creative activity that the person reaches the conscious realization of the exercise, in which the most unconscious part manifests itself.

Art therapy does not require any special skills

Furthermore, it does not require brilliant artistic skills, nor does it require that the result of the work be of great artistic value. Without requiring great artistic skills or knowledge, the work still has value because it is born of the authenticity of the creator. For this, it is essential that the work is done with sufficient spontaneity, responsibility, awareness and sincerity.

The greatest value is what the person saves from within, what they discover and the changes that take place within them. Once the awareness is acquired, a good dose of self-responsibility is necessary: that the person commits to making certain corrections in his or her way of acting.

But it is by observing and reflecting on the creation that the therapist and patient see the inner world reflected and establish where the imbalance lies. The artistic elements form the basis for awareness, from which changes can then be made and transferred into everyday life. It therefore requires a commitment on the part of the patient, as he or she must take responsibility for their own healing process.

Painting by numbers as a therapy?

One of the most popular activities to consider in recent years is without a doubt painting by numbers.

That's why there are many online stores that specialize in painting by numbers. If you are interested in painting by numbers, Paint By Numbers Paradise, offers you everything you need to make painting by numbers a simple and challenging task, and thus enjoy all the benefits it brings to your well-being.

Painting by numbers is an artistic method and creative hobby that involves painting a piece of art on a pre-printed canvas, divided into a multitude of numbered areas.

The key is to paint each numbered area (corresponding to a color) with the associated can of paint, ultimately creating a work of art from scratch.
Many models are available with fully equipped kits that include all the materials needed for painting.

The benefits of paint by numbers

1) Reduces stress

One of the main benefits may be stress reduction. Studies have shown that art techniques end up affecting various stress-producing hormones in the body.
Spending time painting in the peace and quiet of your home after a long day can help you release stress and avoid the problems it causes to your mind and body.

2) Reduces depression

It has also been found that painting can reduce the symptoms of depression, one of the most damaging ailments today. This is because the satisfaction of completing a job gives them a sense of pride, which improves their mood.
In addition, since the paintings have their respective numbers, one can achieve a more professional and quality result, which gives a sense of accomplishment. It also helps to reduce anxiety and distress, thus improving self-esteem and confidence.

By having to paint guided by the numbers and their respective delineations, you will be more focused on following all the essential elements to achieve a professional painting.
It also stimulates the will to finish it to see how it turned out, which will allow you to be more disciplined once the painting is done.

Even if you have guides to help you paint, you can learn how to paint by learning styles, paints and brushes, which will eventually improve your painting skills so that you can develop and learn enough to make your own paintings.
Likewise, your children can benefit from painting by numbers, which stimulates their imagination, creativity, attention span and even empathy.
So, if you're looking for a healthy way to spend your time at home, learning to paint with these boards can be the perfect solution for you and your children to improve your mental and physical well-being.

Painting by number, very easy to use!

Painting by numbers highlights the fact that a painting is constructed from a multitude of shapes and colors. The whole thing taken separately seems rather abstract, but if you do it from start to finish, it makes sense.

Painting by numbers also allows you to learn from a photograph and clearly identify the different areas, tonal changes and color variations. With experience, you will become more proficient in your brushstrokes and be able to easily visualize the different areas of a photo.

Where to find paint-by-number paintings?

You can find this type of paintings at Paint By Numbers Paradise very large specialist in the sale in the art world at very affordable prices, which allows you to have a wide choice among the famous paintings of renowned painters, animals, flowers, cities landscapes, so you can paint what catches your attention.

In addition, the kits include the necessary to paint them, the respective watercolors of different colors and properly identified so you can know in which issue they go, as well as the brushes needed to create an authentic work of art. #link collection

You can also choose a custom design, whether it's your face, your child's face or a scene that moved you, so the store can identify each piece with numbers and you can paint it.

You can also find frames, in case you want to give your paint-by-numbers a more attractive look and hang them on your living room walls.

Painting by numbers has become a fun and soothing way to recreate a piece of art that you love.

You can learn to paint and enjoy all the benefits of painting at the same time, improving the quality of your life or your children's lives.

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Discover what art therapy is, what this activity consists of and what are the benefits of this activity. Click now to learn more about this practice.

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Sketching and shading to create images that reflect inner worlds.

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Sometimes our days can become a little too overwhelming. But that's okay. Not everything needs to be solved right now. Our thoughts can run wild when we have so may things to worry about or do but it's important to take a few moments for some deep breaths, then slowly walk our minds through our most important feelings and tasks. What can really help in these moments is to take 5-15 minutes for ourselves and do a few art therapy exercises, as it helps pulls us out of mountains of thoughts into the present moment while sparking our creativity.

I've listed 10 drawing-based art therapy prompts anyone can do, that will help improve your overall focus, mood, slow down racing thoughts, and put some positive creativity into your schedule.

Now grab your favorite drawing tool, something to draw on (paper, a journal, sketchbook, or even a tablet), and let's get creative!

10 Soothing Drawing Art Therapy Prompts for Racing Thoughts, Anxiety, & Stress Relief

1. Colorful Designs and Patterns

For our first art therapy prompts, let's get colorful!

If you have any, take your most colorful drawing or painting materials.

It can be anything from highlighters to markers, colored pencils, pens, watercolors and anything else you have lying around that you find colorful and exciting to look at.

With your drawing supplies ready, draw random different shapes like circles, squares, swirly loops, or anything else that you find interesting to draw. Keep repeating shapes and simple designs until you've filled up most of the page or drawing area.

The final result doesn't need to look like anything nor be anywhere near perfect. Just try to make it as colorful as you can, using your favorite colors.

Try to fill up as much of the page as possible, trying to leave very little white space. This forces you to take advantage of the page real estate you have and become loose and gestural with your art.

This allows for a lot of happy accidents to happen.
A great technique in art therapy is to draw over areas or objects that have already been drawn. This is a fantastic art therapy exercise because it breaks up boundaries and expectations of having your drawings be perfect and apart from each other.
Instead, redrawing over areas allows you to think in multiple layers and opens up the door for some extremely interesting final drawings that maybe you weren't expecting to make.

Remember: try to keep it as simple as possible.

You can try using a different combination of colors as you do this.

Tip: You can use the designs as a color reference sheet. Try googling simple patterns and designs that you like, and try drawing those for this exercise.

2. Fun Food

Another fun art therapy drawing is to draw one of your favorite foods.

I love eating donuts, ramen, cheese, and sweets. I enjoy drawing foods like these because they're so tasty but also really fun to look at. Those are my usual go-tos when I need something to boost my mood or for an instant art idea.

What's your favorite food or a food that you find really interesting to look at?

Make a quick list of 1-5 things that you loooove to eat.

Once you got your list, pick 1-2 of those foods and draw them. They don't need to be detailed, just something that looks kinda like it.

Color them in to make your art therapy drawing even more scrumptious. You can even use your favorite colors for a more personalized look.

*Positive personalization is one of the many techniques in art therapy that can help you associate your feelings with something less negative because it uses positive/neutral object associations with a calming and relaxing experience. So that next time you think of that object or engage in an activity, you'll more likely associate that with a positive experience.

To take these art therapy prompts a bit further, you can try thinking of 1-3 reasons for each food item of why you like each one. With that list of reasons, do your best to draw out each reason for why you like that food item. Again, try to focus on more of the idea, not detail.

3. Draw Yourself on an Island with Your Favorite Things

This is definitely one of the more imaginative art therapy prompts.

Find a quiet place or put on your favorite music. Then, take a couple of deeps breaths.

Close your eyes for a few minutes.

Now, imagine you're on an island by yourself.

Imagine the calm ocean water, a gentle breeze against the side of your face, and the feeling of the sun on your back. Relaxing, right?

Draw an island, it can be as big or as small as you like with as little or as many palm trees as you want but make sure there's room on the island to draw other things.

Then, make a small list of 5-7 of your favorite things, people, food, etc.

Now, draw those objects on the island. These will be things and/or people you feel you can't live without or that play a big part in your daily life.

Feel free to color it in if you'd like.

How do you feel afterwards?

These are fantastic art therapy exercises for gratefulness.

4. Art Therapy Drawing From Memory

Make a list of at least 3 things that you're grateful for.

Then, draw them. Try your best to not use any references of photos. Use your memory instead and draw your objects out the best you can.

When you use your memory, you're allowing yourself to slow down your thinking and breathing, allowing you to slow down your mind and stop racing thoughts.

Try making your drawings big and start off with only a line drawing or sketch. Don't color or shade your drawings inside.

Instead, after you are done drawing each thing, write why you are grateful for each, inside each sketch.

This is a great art therapy exercise because not only is it a gratefulness, grounding exercise but the finished drawings can be used for art journal therapy, or you can hang the finished drawing on your wall as a reminder of things that make you happy.

If you're looking to draw more quick and simple doodles, check out these 15 Relaxing Random Doodles to Draw When You're Bored, to further help ground yourself.

5. Quick Watercolor Gradient Art Therapy Exercises

Take your paint brush and wet it so that when it touches the watercolors, the paints become paintable/usable but not too watery. Getting the right consistency can be tough at first so don't stress too much about this on your first few tries.

Pick any color you'd like & try to get a good amount of paint on the brush.

Then, from one side of the paper to the other, slowly drag your paint brush in a single line across the paper.

As you drag your brush, the amount of paint being transferred should decrease the longer your line is, creating a monochromatic gradient from dark (where you started) to light.

The final result should be a simple one color gradient from heavy paint to a very light version of the color.

If you can't get a perfect gradient, say your line still has a lot of paint on it, just keep drawing more horizontal lines without refilling your brush until the paint runs out.

6. Continuous Art Therapy Drawing

Another one of my favorite art therapy prompts is continuous drawing.

Continuous drawing is when you draw without ever lifting up your pencil from the paper!

Sounds simple enough, right?

Instead of lifting up your pencil, continuous drawing forces you to stay in the present moment while constantly moving your writing tool and going with the flow.

Just draw with one continuous line all over the page.

Try doing this for at least 5 minutes and try your best to not make anything recognizable. Go with the flow of your hand and arm movements and try gliding your hand all across the page, doing your best to reach every corner and edge.

Doing this expends any pent up physical energy and stress, allowing you to feel more relaxed after the exercise.

What's great about these continuous drawing techniques in art therapy, is that you're somewhat out of control. You're just going with the flow of your hand movements and letting an image happen, not forcing one out.

7. Transferring Emotions Techniques in Art Therapy

Take a moment to sit down and think about how you're feeling.

Are you stressed, frustrated, or maybe indifferent? Or maybe you're feeling motivated and optimistic? Do your best to be the most honest with yourself when answering this question. There's no wrong answers here.

Listen to your body and your thoughts. How do you feel? Are your thoughts racing or is your mind calm?

After answering these questions, try your best to draw your emotions.

They can be a simple emoji face of how you're feeling or something a bit more abstract, like scribbles, lines, or random shapes. It doesn't have to be complicated, just as simple and easy as you want.

For this type of art therapy drawing, it might be helpful to draw using colors that best represent the emotion you're feeling. For example, if you're frustrated or upset, try drawing with red or a warm color. If you're feeling calm or relaxed, try using a type of blue.

Using these types of colors are all subjective to you, so use the ones you think fit the best for you when drawing out your emotions.

You can even try drawing things that you associate with your emotions if you don't know how to transfer your emotions onto paper. For example, if you're feeling happy, you can try drawing the sun with some flowers or if you're feeling a bit down, maybe a rainy day will work instead for these art therapy exercises.

If you want to expressive yourself further with art therapy, check out these 10 Super Simple Expressive Art Therapy Activities to Try Now!

8. Drawing Your Mood Throughout the Day

Some techniques in art therapy help you understand yourself better by drawing out your mood.

I love these art therapy prompts because not only are they very simple but they're a great way to keep track of how you're feeling throughout the day, especially if you're keeping a self care journal and /or want to learn about why you feel a certain way.

First, draw 3 circles in a line on a piece of paper and space them out a bit so they're not touching each other. They can be as big as you'd like but try not to make them too small since we'll be drawing inside them.

Second, above each circle, write "Morning" atop your first circle, "Afternoon" atop the second, & "Evening /Night" on top of the third circle. These will be when you check in and draw your mood throughout the day.

Feel free to write the date somewhere on the page, if you'd like to keep track of your mood for a particular day.

Then, throughout those time of the day, check in and draw how you're feeling. It can be a simple smiley face with 2 eyes and a mouth, or something a bit more detailed if you'd like.

Make sure to do your best to convey your mood.

If you're not great at drawing expressions or faces, no worries! Draw something that represents that feeling instead, like in number 7's art therapy exercises.

You can even write down your mood under each circle to make them easier to identify.

For an even more thorough art therapy drawing, you can write or draw a max. of 3 reasons why you're feeling that way. This is a fantastic exercise to get your thoughts onto paper and get into some mindfulness.

9. Fast Scribbling and/or Shading

What is an art therapy activity without a bit of quick sketching and scribbling?

All you need to do is take your writing tool and just start making scribbles or randomly shading in areas on the paper / page.

You can go as fast or as slow as you'd like but try your best to cover a large area in a small amount of time.

You can even press as hard or light as you'd like. Just make sure to have an extra sheet of paper or something underneath your page so no marks will show up on your table or drawing surface.

15 minutes is usually a great place to start but try not to go over 20-30min. for these art therapy exercises since it can be a bit more physically demanding, the longer you do it at once.

What's great about art therapy prompts with quick scribbling and mark making is that not only is this a mindfulness technique that brings you out of your thoughts into the present but it is also a fantastic way to expend any pent up energy or stress especially if you're feeling a bit tense.

You can try thinking of this as a stress reliever or a way to transfer any negativity into a safe physical and productive outlet.

10. Gratefulness Sketching

Gratefulness sketching techniques in art therapy can really help ground you and help you focus on the simple, happier things that are going on in your life.

To start off, make a small list on your piece of paper of 1-3 things that you're grateful for.

It can literally be anything from the food you had to eat today to the people in your life that you're thankful for.

I chose to draw a tree because I'm grateful for when I have time to take walks in the park and get out for a bit.

No thing is too small to be grateful for.

Then, draw those things from your list.

Take as much or as little time as you'd like and of course, they don't need to be perfect.

Feel free to color in your art therapy drawing if you'd like.

This is a great exercise to get you out of your thoughts because you're taking a moment to stop and think about the things you feel are going well in your life or that provide some sort of positive experience for you.

It's a wonderful reminder to ground yourself and get into a more positive, maybe even optimistic mindset.

Next time you need a little pick-me-up or just a bit bored, feel free to bookmark this page, choose your favorite art therapy prompts, and start drawing!

If you don't have the time to do art therapy & would like some relaxing art or nature to look at now, grab these Instantly Relaxing & Mood-Boosting Printable Wall Art When You Don't Have Time for Art Therapy!

What is an Art Therapy Activity?

An art therapy activity is an art-based exercise that is used to provide mental and physical relief from daily life or mental obstacles such as stress, anxiety, and other emotions and /or thoughts that may be overwhelming.

An art therapy activity can be anything from drawing out your emotions to painting something calmly or just letting your hands and mind go with the flow with what you're creating and doesn't particularly need to look like anything nor have to be complicated.

If anything, art therapy activities are meant to slow down your thoughts and bring you into the present. Think of it as an artistic mindfulness and grounding exercise.

They can include anything from painting and sculpting art therapy exercises to art therapy drawing and art therapy prompts that can put in a more positive mindset.

Whatever type of art you like to make, there's sure to be an art therapy activity for it!

Jumpstart your art therapy journey now with some simple & relaxing printable art therapy prompts & activities, with these instant download coloring pages, printable self-care / affirmation posters, & gorgeous calming printable wall art for a creative 'pick-me-up', perfect for all ages from the official Drawism store!

How You Can Use These Art Therapy Prompts & Your Art Therapy Drawings As Positive Inspiration for Yourself and Others

1. Use Your Drawings as Your Smartphone Wallpaper

2. Print it out your art therapy drawing on a 4×6″ piece of cardstock or postcard paper and send it to someone important to you

3. Frame it as a reminder that you are amazing and are doing your best in the moment you created the drawing.

4. Use it as a background for an inspirational quote - Write a quote or statement that best represents how you feel after the art therapy exercise.

Other Helpful Art Therapy and Resources for Total Relaxation and Self Care:

Other Self Care Tips

Which art therapy prompt are you most excited to try out? Feel free to leave your thoughts in the comments below!

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10 Euphoric Drawing Art Therapy Prompts For Racing Thoughts

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Looking for art therapy exercises to stop racing thoughts? Check out these 10 drawing-based art therapy prompts for people with racing thoughts!

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Combining different materials to create a visual narrative

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Collage as an Art Therapy Medium — Alexandria Art Therapy, LLC

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When we think about making art, often painting or drawing first comes to mind. As an art therapist, sometimes people say to me, “Art therapy won’t work for me because I can’t draw.” But drawing is just one artistic medium. Collage is a tool you can use to create images that are very meaningful to yo

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Working with clay, wood, or other materials to create three-dimensional forms.

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Misha Libertee " Art Exhibitions and Inspiration

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Many people think of art as a hobby or something that is only beneficial to the artist. However, there are many benefits to engaging in artistic pursuits, one of which is mental wellness. Mental well-being can be promoted through the creation and appreciation of art. Art therapy for mental health has been used since ancient times; today's therapeutic sculpting practices are rooted in this idea. These types of activities can help manage stress and anxiety while promoting feelings of creativity and mindfulness.

The mental health benefits of art and sculpture have been documented for centuries, but only recently have researchers begun to understand why and how it works. For example, a study conducted in the 1960s found that hospitalized psychiatric patients who were allowed to paint had lower blood pressure than those who were not. Researchers noted that this could be because of the meditative state of the repetitive motion involved in painting.

The sculpting arts promote mental health

Art therapy is a non-traditional form of mental health treatment that uses creative processes such as art-making and other expressive therapies to increase self-awareness, mood management, and social skills. There are many different art therapies, but one type, in particular, can be used as an alternative or complementary method for treating those with mental illnesses. The sculpture is considered a creative process and an expressive therapy; it allows people to express their feelings through three-dimensional forms and provides them with the opportunity to create something tangible. For example, those who suffer from depression often benefit greatly from creating sculptures because they allow individuals to externalize negative thoughts by giving them physical form.

How making sculpture helps your brain?

Sculpture as art therapy for mental well-being has become increasingly popular. Researchers have found that sculpting can help improve people's moods and reduce stress levels. The creative process of sculpting is said to connect people with their emotions, allowing them to express themselves through self-expression. Sculptures are often used in group settings, where the participants are allowed to communicate with each other by creating a sculpture together. This type of activity allows individuals who may not normally interact under different circumstances to talk about their feelings without judgment or fear of being criticized or judged by others. By providing an environment where individuals have the freedom to create something new together, participants can discover what makes them happy.

The sculpture has been a form of therapy for mental well-being since ancient times. In the modern era, the sculpture is used to help people suffering from various mental illnesses and conditions. We will explore how sculpture can be used as an effective therapeutic tool to improve one's state of mind and general outlook on life.

Sculpting can be a powerful way to improve mental health because it forces the sculptor to focus on something tangible instead of abstract concepts or emotions that may lead to more problems. The process is also highly rewarding; once completed, the artists see their work come to fruition, feeling accomplished and satisfied.

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Sculpture as Art Therapy for Mental Well-being " Misha Libertee

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The mental health benefits of art and sculpture have been documented for centuries, but only recently have researchers begun to understand why and how it works.

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Improving Your Everyday Life Through Art Therapy

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View this resource on the Meee website - Improving Your Everyday Life Through Art Therapy

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Using computer software to create digital artwork.

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The materials you need are:

There are many options for drawing apps. I use Adobe Photoshop Sketch, which I believe is free on both Google Playstore and Apple Store.

Some other apps you can use are:

Now that you are ready, open up the app, and here are the steps:

1. Get in touch with your mood or how you're feeling today. Imagine a landscape that reflected how you feel today. What kind of landscape would it be?

2. Draw an image of this landscape on your app

Many people associate drawing or painting as art therapy, but art therapy can be done with digital mediums as well. These days, there are many different ways to use digital technologies - like digital storytelling, filmmaking, animation, and even virtual reality.

Digital art therapy can be easier for people who already have a tablet or iPad and the neat part is that it's easy to erase and start over.

You can also make it simple or complex with many layers; you can work on a piece as much as you want.

The benefit of using digital medium is increased concentration, focus, and higher self-esteem, especially for children. And drawing on tablets can be especially satisfying for children with Autism.

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Digital Art Therapy Exercise Using iPad or Tablet - Thirsty For Art

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Digital Art Therapy Exercise Using iPad or Tablet Hello friends, today, I'll show you an art therapy exercise you can do with an iPad or tablet.

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I'm Not an Artist, Can Art Therapy Still Help Me?

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I'm Not an Artist, Can Art Therapy Still Help Me?

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You don’t need to be an artist to dive into art therapy—think of it as a playful way to explore your feelings. 🎨✨

Imagine art therapy as a creative playground where you’re free to scribble, splash colors, and make shapes without any pressure. It’s all about expressing yourself, not making a perfect picture. Just like when you were a kid and drew for fun, art therapy lets you do the same, but with a focus on what’s inside you.

So, no artistic skills are required—just bring your imagination and let your emotions flow!

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Face of a person thinking 'How can I do art therapy'

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"Beware: Make sure Arts interpretation is made by professional "

Trusted References for Art Therapy and Art Interpretation

While there's no definitive "key" to interpreting art, these resources can provide valuable insights and theoretical frameworks:

Books:

Art Therapy: A Handbook for Therapists and Clients by Cathy Malchiodi

The Handbook of Art Therapy edited by Cathy Malchiodi and Ronnie Laszlo

Drawing from the Inner Self: A Jungian Approach to Mandalas by June Singer

Academic Journals:

Art Therapy Journal

The Arts in Psychotherapy

Professional Organizations:

American Art Therapy Association (AATA)

British Association of Art Therapists (BAAT)

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Colors and Emotions: How Different Colors Affect Perception and Mood

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Colors and Emotions: How Different Colors Affect Perception and Mood

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How to Become a Professional Interpreter for Art

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How to Become a Professional Interpreter for Art

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Interpreting art can be an incredibly rewarding experience. It requires a deep understanding of the context of the work, the artist's intention, and how to effectively communicate the work's meaning to various audiences. If you are passionate about art and have the desire to pursue professional interpreting as a career, you can become an interpreter for art!

Today we will discuss the skills and qualifications necessary to become a professional interpreter for art.

What is Art Interpretation?

Interpreting art is the practice of connecting audiences with artwork in meaningful and engaging ways. It involves bringing art to life through interactive, contextualized, and creative interpretation. Professional interpreting for art is about more than just understanding the artwork itself; it requires knowing how to communicate the story effectively and the meaning behind the work. This means that a professional interpreter for art needs more than just interpreting skills.

Through their interpretations, interpreters are able to bridge the gap between the artist's vision and the audience's understanding. As such, professional art interpreters help viewers better appreciate and understand the artwork they are seeing. This can be achieved through activities such as guided tours, hands-on activities, lectures, and more.

The Role of Professional Interpreters

Interpreting services play an important role in the art world, allowing artworks to be accessible to a larger audience. Professional interpreting provides an opportunity to experience and understand art in a different target language. The interpreter is responsible for accurately conveying the meaning of the artwork from one target language to another. This requires a deep understanding of both languages and cultures, as well as a thorough knowledge of the specific artwork.

Professional interpreters must have the skill of describing or discussing the artwork in detail, providing valuable information about the artist and their background, explaining the historical context of the artwork, and offering insights into its deeper meaning. The interpreter should be able to do this without distorting or over-simplifying the artwork's message. They must be prepared to offer guidance and support to those who are experiencing and exploring the artwork. They must be aware of any potential cultural differences in how the artwork is interpreted and be able to suggest alternative interpretations if necessary.

Skills and Qualities Required to Become an Interpreter for Art

Professional interpreting for art requires certain skills and qualities to ensure a successful outcome. Besides understanding art, cultural context, and symbolism, as well as an appreciation of the aesthetics of the artwork, Interpreters must possess strong communication skills, with the ability to pay close attention to the meaning behind words rather than just the words themselves. They should also have excellent listening skills in order to interpret accurately. Moreover, professional interpreters must be able to remain impartial and objective when interpreting and should be able to handle stress and other difficult situations.

It is also important for interpreters to stay up-to-date with relevant topics related to their field in order to better understand the conversations they are interpreting. Professional interpreters should also maintain good relationships with their clients by following all instructions precisely. Finally, interpreters should be diplomatic and have good problem-solving skills.

Training and Qualifications to Boost Your Interpreting Skills

In order to become a professional interpreter of art, specialized training is required. Depending on the art form, this could include fine arts, theater, music, and other related fields. It is important to remember that interpreting for art is not the same as interpreting for other professional settings, such as medical or legal interpretation. As such, special qualifications and certifications are necessary to ensure that the interpreter is knowledgeable in their field and capable of delivering accurate and reliable interpretations.

There are several organizations offering certificates and diplomas in professional art interpreting. These programs often provide coursework and instruction in both theoretical and practical aspects of art interpretation. In addition to classroom instruction, some courses may include hands-on experience with live performances and exhibitions. This kind of practical experience is invaluable in helping interpreters understand the nuances of artistic expression and appreciate the unique needs of different art forms.

Many interpreters choose to pursue additional certifications in specific areas such as multimedia or 3D art interpretation. By gaining specialized knowledge and skills, interpreters can broaden their scope of services and further develop their ability to interpret a variety of art forms.

Final Thoughts on Becoming an Interpreter for Art

Ultimately, professional art interpreting requires a deep understanding of artistic expression as well as an extensive knowledge of both theoretical and practical aspects of art interpretation.

While there is no single path to becoming an art interpreter, acquiring the right qualifications, continuing education, and gaining practical experience will all help aspiring interpreters be successful in their field, never forgetting client accessibility for the hard of hearing or visual impairment.

Finding work at an Interpreting Service Provider

As a professional interpreter of art, there are a variety of ways to find work. One of the most popular methods is to use an interpreting services agency such as Day Interpreting. Day Interpreting provides professional interpreting services for all forms of art, including music, theater, literature, painting, and sculpture. They specialize in connecting interpreters with projects that suit their qualifications and experience.

Day Interpreting is a reliable resource to help you find work as an interpreter. They maintain a large database of qualified professionals and regularly post job openings. Once you register with them, they will contact you when appropriate jobs become available. You can also send them your CV and a description of your qualifications so they can assess your suitability for certain projects.

No matter how you go about finding work as an interpreter, Day Interpreting can provide invaluable assistance. With their help, you can take your career to the next level and start enjoying the rewards of professional interpreting for art.

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Become an Interpreter for Art - Day Interpreting Blog

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If you are passionate about art and have the desire to pursue professional interpreting as a career, you can become an interpreter for art.

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Explore Your Feelings with Art | Tate Kids

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Explore Your Feelings with Art | Tate Kids

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Explore Your Feelings with Art | Tate Kids

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Art Therapy at UC Davis Children's Hospital

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Art therapy offers valuable support across various groups, including:

Individuals with Mental Health Issues: Provides a creative outlet for expressing and managing complex emotions.

People Struggling with Anxiety: Helps in reducing stress and promoting relaxation through artistic expression.

Those Experiencing Depression: Assists in exploring and articulating feelings, aiding in the journey toward emotional recovery.

Individuals Facing Emotional Difficulties: Facilitates self-discovery and coping strategies through creative processes.

Survivors of PTSD: Offers a safe space to process traumatic experiences and regain a sense of control.

People Dealing with Stress: Encourages mindfulness and relaxation through art-making activities.

Individuals with Learning Difficulties: Supports cognitive development and self-expression in a non-verbal manner.

Those on the Autism Spectrum: Enhances communication and social skills through structured artistic activities.

People with Dementia: Stimulates memory recall and emotional expression, contributing to overall well-being.

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Co-Supervisor of Group Elective 28

Assoc. Prof. Dr. Salina Mohamed

Professional Registration Numbers

128072 (National Specialist Register of Malaysia, 2011)

40821 (Malaysian Medical Council, 2004)

Specialty: Psychiatry

Qualifications

MB BCh BAO (Queen’s University of Belfast, United Kingdom) 2003

MPM (University of Malaya, Malaysia) 2010

Places of Practice

Universiti Teknologi MARA, Sungai Buloh (Primary)

Hospital Selayang, Batu Caves

Hospital UiTM, Puncak Alam

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National Specialist Register of Malaysia

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Co-Supervisor of Group Elective 28

Dr. Nurul Azreen Binti Hashim

Professional Registration Numbers

130917 (National Specialist Register of Malaysia, 2015)
41519 (Malaysian Medical Council, 2005)

Specialty: Psychiatry

Qualifications

MD (Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia, Malaysia) 2004

MPM (University of Malaya, Malaysia) 2011

Places of Practice

Universiti Teknologi MARA, Puncak Alam (Primary)

Hospital Selayang, Batu Caves

UiTM Private Specialist Centre, Sungai Buloh

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National Specialist Register of Malaysia

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Prof. Dr. Mohammad Azis Shah Bin Mohammed Arip

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Prof. Dr. Mohammad Azis Shah Bin Mohammed Arip

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Professor Dr. Mohammad Azis Shah bin Mohamed Arip

Professor in the Department of Psychology and Counseling at Universiti Pendidikan Sultan Idris (UPSI), Tanjong Malim, Perak, Malaysia.

Founder of the AD–HTP Certification Module (Art-Drawing–House Tree Person), which interprets drawings of houses, trees, and people to explore problems and facilitate helping relationships

Registered counselor with a Certificate of Practice (155/101) and a member of PERKAMA (Malaysian Counseling Association) and PSIMA (Malaysian Psychological Association).

President of the Malaysian AD-HTP Practitioners Association and the President of the Malaysian Neo-CBT Practitioners Association.

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Profesor Dr Mohammad Aziz Shah Mohamed Arip - ED Counseling and Psychology

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PROFESOR DR. MOHAMMAD AZIZ SHAH BIN MOHAMED ARIP merupakan Profesor di Jabatan Psikologi dan Kaunseling, Universiti Pendidikan Sultan Idris (UPSI) Tanjong Malim

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Al-Fatih Intergrated Pre-School

Established in 2005.

Four branches have been providing both preschool and childcare services since 2009.

Vision: To become a preferred educational center, nurturing a holistic future generation based on Quranic and Sunnah principles.

Mission: Al-Fatih values each child as a champion, emphasizing character development, skills, and competence.

They maintain a strict privacy policy regarding the personal data of their students.

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Memberi khidmat Asuhan Pendidikan kanak-kanak bermula awal usia untuk membangunkan generasi berakhlak, berkemahiran dan berketerampilan bersumberkan Al Quran dan Sunnah dengan mengiktiraf bahawa setiap anak adalah JUARA.

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As a token of our gratitude, our team provided handouts, crayons, stickers, and colored pencils to 12 students from Al Fatih Preschool. We also gifted them cookies and Vitagen to thank them for their active participation. ✨

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A Workshop on Art Therapy held By the Department of Psychiatry and Mental Health, Hospital Al-Sultan Abdullah, UiTM Puncak Alam (HASA)

Credits to Dr. Nurul Azreen Binti Hashim for sharing this with us

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Utilizes music—listening, playing instruments, singing, or composing—as a therapeutic tool. It can be either active (where the patient engages directly with music) or receptive (where the patient listens to music).

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Music therapy is a therapeutic approach that uses the naturally mood-lifting properties of music to help people improve their mental health and overall well-being. It's a goal-oriented intervention that may involve:

This form of treatment may be helpful for people with depression and anxiety, and it may help improve the quality of life for people with physical health problems. Anyone can engage in music therapy; you don't need a background in music to experience its beneficial effects.

Types of Music Therapy

Music therapy can be an active process, where clients play a role in creating music, or a passive one that involves listening or responding to music. Some therapists may use a combined approach that involves both active and passive interactions with music.

There are a variety of approaches established in music therapy, including:

Analytical music therapy: Analytical music therapy encourages you to use an improvised, musical "dialogue" through singing or playing an instrument to express your unconscious thoughts, which you can reflect on and discuss with your therapist afterward.

Benenzon music therapy: This format combines some concepts of psychoanalysis with the process of making music. Benenzon music therapy includes the search for your "musical sound identity," which describes the external sounds that most closely match your internal psychological state.

Cognitive behavioral music therapy (CBMT): This approach combines cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) with music. In CBMT, music is used to reinforce some behaviors and modify others. This approach is structured, not improvisational, and may include listening to music, dancing, singing, or playing an instrument.

Community music therapy: This format is focused on using music as a way to facilitate change on the community level. It's done in a group setting and requires a high level of engagement from each member.

Nordoff-Robbins music therapy: Also called creative music therapy, this method involves playing an instrument (often a cymbal or drum) while the therapist accompanies using another instrument. The improvisational process uses music as a way to help enable self-expression.

The Bonny method of guided imagery and music (GIM): This form of therapy uses classical music as a way to stimulate the imagination. In this method, you explain the feelings, sensations, memories, and imagery you experience while listening to the music.

Vocal psychotherapy: In this format, you use various vocal exercises, natural sounds, and breathing techniques to connect with your emotions and impulses. This practice is meant to create a deeper sense of connection with yourself.

Music Therapy vs. Sound Therapy

Music therapy and sound therapy (or sound healing) are distinctive, and each approach has its own goals, protocols, tools, and settings:

Music therapy is a relatively new discipline, while sound therapy is based on ancient Tibetan cultural practices.

Sound therapy uses tools to achieve specific sound frequencies, while music therapy focuses on addressing symptoms like stress and pain.

The training and certifications that exist for sound therapy are not as standardized as those for music therapists.

Music therapists often work in hospitals, substance abuse treatment centers, or private practices, while sound therapists may offer their service as a component of complementary or alternative medicine.

Techniques

When you begin working with a music therapist, you will start by identifying your goals. For example, if you're experiencing depression, you may hope to use music to naturally improve your mood and increase your happiness. You may also want to try applying music therapy to other symptoms of depression like anxiety, insomnia, or trouble focusing.

You may be asked to tune in to your emotions as you perform these tasks or to allow your feelings to direct your actions. For example, if you are angry, you might play or sing loud, fast, and dissonant chords.

You may also use music to explore ways to change how you feel. If you express anger or stress, your music therapist might respond by having you listen to or create music with slow, soft, soothing tones.

Music therapy is often one-on-one, but you may also choose to participate in group sessions if they are available. Sessions with a music therapist take place wherever they practice, which might be a:

Clinic

Community health center

Correctional facility

Hospital

Private office

Physical therapy practice

Rehabilitation facility

Wherever it happens to be, the room you work in together will be a calm environment with no outside distractions.

What Music Therapy Can Help With

Music therapy may be helpful for people experiencing:

Research also suggests that it can be helpful for people with:

Music therapy is also often used to help children and adolescents:

Develop their identities

Improve their communication skills

Learn to regulate their emotions

Recover from trauma

Self-reflect

Benefits of Using Music as Therapy

Music therapy can be highly personalized, making it suitable for people of any age-even very young children can benefit. It's also versatile and offers benefits for people with a variety of musical experience levels and with different mental or physical health challenges.

Engaging with music can:

Activate regions of the brain that influence things like memory, emotions, movement, sensory relay, some involuntary functions, decision-making, and reward

Fulfill social needs for older adults in group settings

Lower heart rate and blood pressure

Relax muscle tension

Release endorphins

Relieve stress and encourage feelings of calm

Strengthen motor skills and improve communication for children and young adults who have developmental and/or learning disabilities

Overall, music therapy can increase positive feelings, like:

Calmness

Euphoria

Confidence and empowerment

Emotional intimacy

Effectiveness

The uses and benefits of music therapy have been researched for decades. Key findings from clinical studies have shown that music therapy may be helpful for people with depression and anxiety, sleep disorders, and even cancer.

Depression

Studies have shown that music therapy can be an effective component of depression treatment. According to the research cited, the use of music therapy was most beneficial to people with depression when it was combined with the usual treatments (such as antidepressants and psychotherapy).

In 2016, researchers conducted a feasibility study that explored how music therapy could be combined with CBT to treat depression. While additional research is needed, the initial results were promising.

Many people find that music, or even white noise, helps them fall asleep. Research has shown that music therapy may be helpful for people with sleep disorders or insomnia as a symptom of depression.

Pain Management

Music has been explored as a potential strategy for acute and chronic pain management in all age groups. Research has shown that listening to music when healing from surgery or an injury, for example, may help both kids and adults cope with physical pain.

Music therapy may help reduce pain associated with:

Chronic conditions: Music therapy can be part of a long-term plan for managing chronic pain, and it may help people recapture and focus on positive memories from a time before they had distressing long-term pain symptoms.

Labor and childbirth: Music therapy-assisted childbirth appears to be a positive, accessible, non-pharmacological option for pain management and anxiety reduction for laboring people.

Surgery: When paired with standard post-operative hospital care, music therapy is an effective way to lower pain levels, anxiety, heart rate, and blood pressure in people recovering from surgery.

Coping with a cancer diagnosis and going through cancer treatment is as much an emotional experience as a physical one. People with cancer often need different sources of support to take care of their emotional and spiritual well-being.

Music therapy has been shown to help reduce anxiety in people with cancer who are starting radiation treatments. It may also help them cope with the side effects of chemotherapy, such as nausea.

Music therapy may also offer emotional benefits for people experiencing depression after receiving their cancer diagnosis, while they're undergoing treatment, or even after remission.

Things to Consider

On its own, music therapy may not constitute adequate treatment for medical conditions, including mental health disorders. However, when combined with medication, psychotherapy, and other interventions, it can be a valuable component of a treatment plan.

If you have difficulty hearing, wear a hearing aid, or have a hearing implant, you should talk with your audiologist before undergoing music therapy to ensure that it's safe for you.

Similarly, music therapy that incorporates movement or dancing may not be a good fit if you're experiencing pain, illness, injury, or a physical condition that makes it difficult to exercise.

You'll also want to check your health insurance benefits prior to starting music therapy. Your sessions may be covered or reimbursable under your plan, but you may need a referral from your doctor.

How to Get Started

Depending on your goals, a typical music therapy session lasts between 30 and 50 minutes. Much like you would plan sessions with a psychotherapist, you may choose to have a set schedule for music therapy-say, once a week-or you may choose to work with a music therapist on a more casual "as-needed" basis.

Before your first session, you may want to talk things over with your music therapist so you know what to expect and can check in with your primary care physician if needed.

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Music therapy can help people improve their mood and mental health with music. Learn how music is used as a therapy for anxiety, depression, and other conditions.

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https://arttherapy.org/story-library/

In some Malaysian hospitals, art therapy is available as a self-directed tool where patients are free to draw or paint at their own pace.

This approach encourages patients to immerse themselves in the creative process, allowing them to choose colors and designs that help them mentally disconnect from their problems.

However, this form of therapy is not offered frequently and is typically available only on specific days, based on patients' preferences

One of the hospitals that practices this method is Hospital Al-Sultan Abdullah, UiTM Puncak Alam (HASA)

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How many times have you been asked, "What is art therapy?" There are many ways to describe art therapy and often a story is a powerful way to share our work. We know these amazing stories because we experience them every day and have the honor of witnessing the impact of art therapy in people's lives. Now it's time to share those stories with the world.

READ MORE

The paint tin, paper and brushes sit in front of him. He doesn't know what to do. I ask if he'd like to paint? I ask about color choices, which have been narrowed to just a few? Using hand over hand we create little by way of color, movement or enjoyment.

The art is set aside and saved.

No paint, no smiles, few words are exchanged upon my next visit. I set up his passed brightly colored art pieces, next to the fading works which followed. All were set aside and saved. He appears as if he recalls the joy they brought. However...I don't know. What I'm seeing is the blank stare of Alzheimer's Disease. And this is my brother.

"My Journey"
By Julie Houck, ATR-BC
Sharing my art therapy story.

When in high school, I enjoyed and excelled in psychology classes. When subsequently looking for professions that appealed to me, I was delighted to find the art therapy profession that married both my interests of art and psychology. As an undergraduate, my areas of study were the arts, with a concentration in painting, dance, and art therapy.

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While raising three children, teaching and producing art was a flexible way to stay involved in my profession while affording me family time. When I was 40 years old, I decided for the first time to enter a calling for artwork that would represent Yom HaShoa, the Holocaust Remembrance Day.

My father, who had been a Holocaust survivor, was no longer living. As the child of a Holocaust survivor, I felt moved to rise to the challenge and call for making a meaningful piece of art. I had long held onto my father's traumatic story, which he shared with me when I was 12 years old. The story he told me was how my grandmother, for whom I am named, died during the removal of Jews from Budapest, Hungary in the early 1940's. He was 13 at the time he witnessed his mother shot by the Germans as he and his mother were forced to walk from Budapest towards a cattle car headed for Germany. My father told me that my grandmother was no longer able to walk on the march when she was shot in the woods in front of my father.

During my art therapy education I was very influenced by Lucia Capacchione's books on emotional healing. I decided to take the plunge and face my fear of exposing a very raw, vulnerable and emotional experience. The 18 x 24 painting I created I had long imagined in my mind's eye was done in pencil allowing me some emotional control. Although my art piece was not selected for the Yom HaShoa competition, I felt that I had won. Painstakingly drawing this image and another in pastel, adding color and the gore of blood, while working out my feelings in a journal helped me to free myself of my father's traumatic experience, and that of my grandmother and myself, which I had carried with me silently for 28 years. The paper became the sacred space to express my family story.

I had learned the power of art therapy from my coursework. Yet, through my own personal experience I intrinsically had a new level of understanding and catharsis. It was a relief for me to now have the image outside of myself, to document a story I no longer needed to carry in my body and in my mind. By using pencil I had the control that I needed to reveal the image of how I heard my father's story. I was able to clear away a large, heavy -hearted story in my mind's eye. After the two images, I felt as if a large weight was released. I was free. Letting my inner experience be expressed outside of myself felt so liberating. I was able to breathe a sigh of relief and my body also felt so much lighter. It was my strong and sustained interest in psychology, art, and the power of my own experience that inspired me to go back to school and pursue a Master's degree in art therapy.

After receiving my graduate degree in Expressive Arts Therapy, at Prescott College in Prescott, AZ, I have worked with many children, as well as children living in adult bodies, who were unable to express preverbal experiences or traumatic experiences for which they had no words or a true understanding of their past emotional experiences which were interfering with becoming their true essence. I have learned that Art Therapy not only helps to make sense of one's experiences, but offers catharsis by bringing long held unconscious material to the conscious level.

As a result of my training, art therapy mentors, and my own personal experiences, I have been very fortunate that others have entrusted me not only with their stories, but also with their personal journey towards healing. I understand the fear and courage it takes to trust in the process, and the overwhelming feelings that follow by bringing vulnerability to surface.

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Little tree would lean sadly against his mother while he watched all the branches of the other trees in which birds of all colors and sizes were nesting and singing praises to the magic of the forest. His own little branches could barely hold his leaves, and they ached with pain. Across the valley of blue and sunlit flowers lived a wise old forest elf. Little tree's mother called upon him to see why her son was having such a hard time with his childhood roots. It was a cloudy day in the forest when he came to see little tree and the silver reflection on the leaves from the recent rain mirrored his image and his magical bag of potions. The elf was the wisest soul in the forest; Surely he could heal little tree. Wise old elf embraced little tree. "Ouch," cried little tree. Father tree started to scold his son." Quit being such a little sapling. Let the old one touch you, he will heal you." little tree started to cry. Wise old elf said "why do you start a rainstorm on me, little tree?" Little tree turned his leaves so he could better see the magic one. "I hurt from my roots to tip of my crown," he said. "My branches feel all twisted and knotted. My trunk feels as if 1000 woodpeckers were doing their noise making dance on me". As his tears continue to fall, he said," I feel more like a weeping willow than a royal oak. My branches cannot hold the beautiful song makers of the Valley nor the colorful rainbow of butterflies that take flight." With this, little tree dropped his branches to where they took the shape of heavy, wet rope. Wise old elf stepped back from under little tree. He stood there with all his magical devices, rubbing his fingers through his snowy white beard. The clouds were parting and the sunlight started to dance down from the sky, warming the Valley. The blessings of the wood fairies could be heard as they gathered on the shoulder of the wise elf. One magically whispered in wise old elf's ear." What is wrong with little tree? Hurry and fix him so we may color his leaves with earth tones for the coming fall." Wise old elf held his powerful arms up to the heaven and asked the creator of the forest for guidance. You see, wise old elf had magic that could do many things of wonder, but he could not heal little tree. To him, this young tree looked just like any other small tree in the forest. He came from strong roots, and from a family of shading grace. Wise old elf had seen the entire forest grow from the beginning of time. He remembered the first rain onto this once barren field, which was now linked together by intertwining branches of love.

Little tree leaned his heavy burden branches around his mother's." I'm so scared because of how I feel. It hurts, mommy, and no birds will sing their songs in my branches because I cannot hold my arms to the sky. Why do I have this pain and hurt? It is not fair that no other tree my age feels this way. All I hear is the echo of tree teasing from others. Sometimes I wish a lumberjack would come along and..." Just then, a radiant light danced down from a mighty Golden spiral in the sky, lighting up the face of wise old elf. A low, humming noise was whistling through the Valley until it came upon the ear of the old elf. "Little tree," spoke wise old elf. Little tree turned his leaves once again so he could see the old elf. All was silent in the Valley. Even the wind had become voiceless. The birds of the forest bowed their heads in silence. The animals crept up to little tree, filled with love for their brave, little branched friend. The fairies surrounding little tree, holding golden balls of light that were reflections of the sun's warmth. Wise old elf walked under little tree and raised his head, looking upward into his branches. He lifted his hand to touch one of the small, drooping branches." Do you know why you feel pain in all your branches?" "No," whispered little tree, as his leaves were gently stroked by his mother's branches. The wise elf summoned for all the forest to listen by singing an ancient forest song. Golden light in the air I breathe touching all my branches from you to me we all are branches of the one loving tree bless the forest with understanding the pain of our little tree. "Little tree," spoke wise old elf, the name of your pain is fibromyalgia." The word was winded throughout the entire forest.

"Fibromyalgia is a painful bark condition. It can make your roots so painful that you'll want to cry, and it is okay to cry. You must understand that maybe your branches cannot hold the birds to make the music, but they can hold the caterpillars until they are born into butterflies. Maybe you will not able to reach all your branches to the sky to touch the sun, but the Earth needs shade at times and lower branches like yours are the perfect ones. Yes, you will feel pain for no forest is perfect. However, you must remember you are a royal oak and you will always be a tree of strength and truth."

With this, the entire forest of trees interlocked branches to form one. The old elf lowered his head turned to walk towards the hills of home. A swarm of lighted fairies lit his path as the sun was lowering its face into the sky. Fall came to the forest and then winter. Months passed while wise old elf spent his days doing deeds of good throughout the forest. It was on the first day of May when a purple passion flower fairy landed on the old elf shoulder." ah," said Wise old elf," you bring me news of my friend, little tree." The old elf snuggled the fairy in his vest pocket and spoke that he must journey to see for himself.

The fields were of mustard yellow and the scent of dandelion blanketed the spring top crescents. The winding road seemed steep for our elderly friend. As he came to the clearing, clouds of rolling, white peaks cast shadows to the earth below. At the top of the hill stood little tree, who was not so little as before. The old wood elf stepped up the hill to the trunk of his little friend. What he saw was not the same as nearly a year ago. Little tree turned his leaves so he could greet his longtime friend. "Little tree," exclaimed wise old elf," Your branches are filled with light colored butterflies and your roots blossom the most beautiful flowers that grow in any forest shade." Little tree spoke with a voice of confidence and quiet strength." Old wise one, take heed of the forest vines that grow around me." The old elf squinted through his glasses. He saw how the vines of the earth had grown up little trees limbs and wrapped and secured them with their support." Wise old elf," spoke little tree," each day in our forest I awaken with pain. I still pray to the great creator of the forest to take away this spell in hopes that one day my bark will all be well. But I must tell you that there is no pity here, only courage. Courage comes from my friends of the forest who help me each day with the spell of fibromyalgia. When the rain comes down to fast and hurts my limbs, the older towering trees will bend their branches over me to keep me dry. The sun dances warmth onto my crown which helps the pain every morning, especially after the rain.

Wise old elf spoke while touching one of little trees branches. "In our forest, we will someday break this spell. Until then, little tree, you will overshadow us all with your courage and the strength of the beauty you tell." And with this, the old Woods elf embraced little tree while dancing fairies sang songs of the wood bees.

The end

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I use art to emotionally survive, thrive and navigate my therapeutic process. I use a similar process with my clients as well. I feel if I did not have art, I would have an increasingly difficult time coping, understanding and working as an art therapist. The expressive modalities have given me purpose and a voice when I am in need; whether the need is something grand or simply an emotional release.

As a survivor of trauma, I feel that it would be a disservice to others and myself to not share my art therapy experiences as both the patient and the clinician. At an early age, I discovered that art was not only about the tangible piece that you developed but the process behind your creation was just as important. My knowledge within the arts and experiences has helped me immensely working in the mental health field. I have worked primarily with children and adolescents who have traumatic backgrounds, as well as those with emotional and behavioral difficulties. Being able to work with, share and collaborate with my clients, gives me hope everyday.

I currently am in a long term therapeutic relationship with a client and have seen his art transition throughout our time together. He began treatment seemingly quiet, withdrawn and worked strictly with pencil and white paper. He has evolved in his choice of art materials, he displays a wider range of affect, self-awareness and verbal communication. He creates three-dimensional pieces, abstract representations of himself and uses various modes of expression such as music and movement in our sessions. I feel these changes have occurred due to rapport, my established therapeutic holding environment and the client's desire for growth and change. I feel that art is a catalyst and necessary guide in my client's progress and overall well-being in his therapeutic process. Art and art therapy practices work as a metaphoric expression of emotion. Art acts as a trigger yet a safety net for for one's experiences and growth.

"Flipping the Script! Transforming the Inner Critic"
By Jenna Broderick, BA, MS (May 2018)
One of my most priceless 'Ah-ha!' moments came to me by way of a homework assignment my first year of grad school. The class was Psychology of Art Materials and our assignment was to do something nice for ourselves every day for one week then share it with the class. I chose to be more mindful and diligent about flipping my ever chattering negative self-talk to something more positive and encouraging. That is when I found the Inner Critic directive in Focus- Orienting Art Therapy by Dr. Laury Rappaport.

-my mind goes, 2015

This experiential involves creating two images and a mediation between the an inner Critic and Criticize by way of an actual dialogue: 1- the felt sense of the current relationship between the Critic and Criticized 2- and the felt sense of how you would like the relationship to be

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While bedridden and wearing for my life (doctors could not adequately diagnose or treat my condition), all I had energy for was drawing and writing. Without planning it, my sketchbooks morphed into art journals full of a style of art I did not recognize as my own. These "strange" drawings form the inside out were "written in another tongue". Slowly I began to feel better. After 3 months of therapy (gestalt, Transactional analysis, neo-Reighcian energy work) and a total of several months of journaling, I recovered completely. A friend told me I was doing art therapy in my journal. I had no idea what she was talking about, so I researched the new field. Eventually I went into art therapy as a client for several months followed by entering an external degree Master's Program through Goddard College in Plainfield. VT. I have been in private practice since 1976, have 3 best sellers under my belt, and just published my 19th and 20th books:
Drawing Your Stress Away and Hello, This is Your Body Talking (Draw-It-Yourself Coloring books using my Creative Journal approach in a coloring book format). Next year I will turn 80 and my Professional Training Program, Creative Journal Expressive Arts, will turn 20 with 82 active members using my methods all over the world schools, hospitals, counseling centers, with vets, in addictions treatment and cancer support groups. At 80, I feel that I am just getting started.

"Person-centered Art Therapy Makes Explosive Gains"
By Erich D. Montfort, MS
During my Nazareth College internship, I was sent to a maximum-security forensic psychiatric center, voluntarily of course!

Despite pressure to apply DBT, CBT, and all those other intimidating acronyms on these patients, involved in the judicial system due to mental illness, I offered person-centered art therapy. Forty-five minutes a week, I provided each patient unconditional positive regard, and this turned out unexpectedly healing for those who had experienced so much negative attention in the events leading to their incarceration.

This was especially true for Curly, a short, stocky, tattooed, and bald man, whose name has been changed in this story for confidentiality. Curly was my first client, and much to my dismay, was admitted for problems with Intermittent Explosive Disorder. Handing a sharpened pencil to this patient, I thought that I might as well hand over a loaded gun.

Meticulously, Curly drew small shapes. He drew a line, erased it, and redrew the line again. He wanted perfection, and I could almost hear the sizzling fuse between his ears threatening to blow. "I like those interesting imperfections you make," I said, intentionally adding flaws to the tree I happened to be drawing. He watched as I integrated the inconsistencies into a unified and more interesting whole.

He suddenly ditched his discomforted shapes, to draw his own tree, and I sat surprised, witnessing such a tough-looking man draw such a sad-looking tree. With severed club-like branches, spear-like twigs, and a prominent gaping hole, I thought it could be isolated enough to excite even the renowned Emanuel F. Hammer, himself! I knew we were finally getting somewhere. He asked if I could teach him how to shade next session. I agreed.

But, next session I hid his preferred-pencils to teach the wonders of watercolor! Much as watercolor is a prone to unexpected mistakes, I was an art therapy intern prone to punishment. However, having the courage to become vulnerable, with Curly, turned out to be worth the risk.

In the following months, he painted a series of watercolor trees, and together we discussed and processed his hopes and dreams, his triggers and stressors, his fears, and even his deepest regret. On the day he relapsed, I was still there, unconditionally. Like all of us, he was much more than the worst things he's done. In his final painting, not only was the hole in his tree finally healed, but also it was blooming.

"Art as Another Language"
By Anne M. Warren, DAT, ATR-BC, ATRL, LPC
The other day I saw this photo of a summary of how the presentation of a play full of dragons and magical scenes went on a day when there were classrooms full of students in the audience.

This made me think about a little boy an art therapist saw a while back, who refused to speak in public. He was about 5 years old, and in kindergarten at the local public elementary school. He occasionally whispered to a classmate, but stopped when noticed by his teacher. He never spoke to the teacher, or any other adult while at school. He would talk in a whisper at home, but not often.

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His foster mother came in alone and explained that he had experienced trauma in his family of origin, and she had stepped in to care for him, hoping to adopt him. She hoped that art therapy might help, given his love of creating art, and, of course, his refusal to talk. She seemed tense, and talked about how stressful this was in their family. She noted that there seemed to be no laughter at home. She couldn't remember the last time she had laughed.

The art therapist had not treated selective mutism before, and gave a lot of thought to how he might work through his difficulty communicating. As an art therapist, I know that art is a form of communication, and that it can evoke emotions in people. We all know that from our enjoyment of art, or how art can stir controversy. But how was this art therapist going to use one form of communication to spur another?

The art therapist decided to tell him right away that she knew that he didn't like talking, so in her office, talking was not required. In fact, he would not talk, but instead draw what he wanted her to know. They began their art-making session with one question: "What would you like to do first"?

I understand that his eyes lit up, and he glanced at the display of acrylic paints on the table behind the art therapist. He drew a picture of a paint bottle using the paper and markers on the table in front of him. Mother watched nervously as the art therapist talked and he drew through the first ten minutes of the session. He made scribbles in the color of paint he wanted and watched as it was poured out onto the pallet. The art therapist chose some brushes for him, and put out water and towels, chatting all the while.

He sat on Mother's lap and readied himself to paint. As soon as the paint touched the paper, he began to talk. He told the therapist all about his morning in kindergarten, his dog at home, how much he likes swimming in the summer, and how he loves his dog. A 30 minute session drew out to 55 minutes while he painted and talked, and the therapist listened and renewed paper, paint, and water. At the therapist's urging, he painted things he loved, and things that scared him. He painted his new family, but not his old one. He painted a dark cloud that he said was "bad things" and he painted a rainbow when asked how he felt right then. He was not pushed to remember his trauma, or explore it. After all, it was a first session, and they were just getting to know each other. They completed their session by walking down the hallway towards the reception area chatting all the way, Mother trailing behind. He was given a sketchbook to take with him while Mother made more appointments.

What happened in that art therapy office that day? Was it the permission to not talk that triggered his speech? Or perhaps it was the fun game of drawing his wishes. Was it the painting itself, or his knowing that he was there because he wouldn't speak and the art therapist was the person who allowed him to talk in images instead? It could have been all of the above, but I think that moving the paint across the paper was important to the release of words for that little boy. He never returned to see the art therapist. Mother called and cancelled all future appointments because he continued to talk-to everyone, everywhere. We never did get the chance to explore his trauma history through art, but perhaps the dark cloud image was enough for now. When Mother called the art therapist to cancel his future appointments, she talked about how things at home had changed. She said that the tension at home seemed lessened and everyone seemed happier. Foster Mother asked if there might be a way to get him to stop talking so much should they get tired of his happy chatter in the future. The art therapist told her that they'd cross that bridge when they came to it, if ever. She laughed.

"Red Dot Messages"
By Sally Rudolph, MA
At the Art Therapy Conference in Seattle in 2013, I found myself alone in a space that had art supplies on various tables. I happily made a colorful abstract landscape, enjoying the quiet activity in the middle of a busy weekend. After I created my landscape, I took a dowel and some red paint and made a path of red dots along the "mountains" and into the sky. And then I moved on to more presentations.

At the time the painting did not mean very much to me, but it seemed to have kick-started a new phase in my art. For the next 10 months I painted several more small and simple red dot paintings when I could sneak in the time. So many red splotches in various compositions emerged. They marched along the pages as if they had a message to deliver.

It was not until I found myself in the hospital undergoing tests, enduring procedures, getting blood transfusions and painfully facing a life-threatening blood disease that I understood what I had been painting. For 10 months my body had been trying desperately to communicate with my brain. It had been
calling out to my conscious, expressed through my paintings, that it needed help.

I was painting my blood.

"Hearing the Unknown, Taking Charge, and Communication"
By Kirsten Knoblauch, MA
Stefan came to therapy struggling with depressed, unstable mood. In our early work together he disclosed a history of trauma, that he hears voices, and that he had not talked much about either of these experiences. He started hearing voices when he was young: "It started as a whisper, then multiple whispers, then turned into multiple people trapped within the box of my mind ...Sometimes I would try to think or imagine something good, and they would turn it into something cruel or disgusting. I was freaked out."

We began exploring connections between his past experiences and current struggles, including the seeming emotions and motivations of his voices. Through the course of therapy Stefan came to identify that his voices represented various parts of himself, and that these parts may in fact be terrified and hurting - just like Stefan has been. He began using art making to explore with these "parts", and between his parts. This included the series of images show here titled Hearing the Unknown, Taking Charge, and Communication. We explored these images together and he began to evolve his relationship with his voices:

"I learned that my voices are part of me, and it is OK to have a relationship and conversations with these parts of me. I learned if I don't do that I will keep feeling like everything is against me. I realized that these parts of me are trying to guide me and that if I listen, they may actually learn to help me in a different way ...They are not trying to make me do anything really, they are trying to protect me. ...Now I listen to them more. I listen to whatever choices they suggest but I decide what to do. After a while they became not just voices but my friends. Now sometimes they whisper and tell me 'you can do this, you can do something amazing.'...Day by day I try to rebuild my broken self. Years ago I lost my confidence. I am trying to regain that lost person, someone who isn't afraid to speak his mind, to be more outgoing and confident, someone no longer afraid of his past, someone who faces pain head on and becomes stronger because of it."

Stefan and Kirsten continue to work together. He has a number of goals including to create and publish a comic book someday, and to share his work with the public.

"James Looks and Listens to Our Art"
By Michael Pretzer, LGPAT
I was at the sink cleaning brushes when Helen, the clinic's music therapist, burst in. She had found James sitting at a table in the lunchroom, staring into space. She wanted my help.

James had been enrolled in our clinic for a couple of months. He had taken to music therapy immediately, but only slowly did he warm to art therapy. On his own time he drew in a sketchbook using chalk pastels that belonged to his mother, yet he was reluctant to come into the studio. He dropped his resistance, however, after I suggested we draw together-he with his mother's pastels and I with pastels I'd had since high school.

When Helen asked for my assistance I grabbed pastels and paper and joined her sitting with James at the table. We realized we needed to bring James back to the here and now, and we believed that art had the power to carry him home. Helen and I began to draw. Without an intention to collude, we both created abstract images in yellows and blues. Helen drew in a circular motion, and I made horizontal shapes. I whispered to James to look at the light (in our drawings) and listen to the sound (of the pastels scratching the paper). Helen and I moved our drawings directly in front of James so he could see and touch them. We put our hands on top of his and waited as he slowly returned from his other world.

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Story Library - American Art Therapy Association

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How many times have you been asked, "What is art therapy?" There are many ways to describe art therapy and often a story is a powerful way to share our work. We know these amazing stories because we experience them every day and have the honor of witnessing the impact of art therapy in people's lives.

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Discover the transformative power of art therapy where creativity meets healing. Whether you’re seeking personal growth or mental wellness, these resources can guide you on your journey:

Hotline & Links:

https://soulmechanicstherapy.com/our-services/art-therapy/

https://arttherapy.my/

https://www.tiktok.com/@profmas_positive

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Art Therapy

We help you resolve your issues using visual arts.

Art therapists use art to help patients interpret, express, and resolve their emotions and thoughts. Clients work with an art therapist to explore their emotions, understand conflicts or feelings that are causing them distress, and use art to help them find resolutions to those issues.

At Soul Mechanics Therapy Centre, art therapy supplements therapy sessions. Your therapist will discuss this before scheduling a session with the art therapist.

Soul Mechanics Therapy Centre uses a holistic approach to helping our clients. As such, we aspire to expand our services to support clients' mental health needs. To cater to our client's physical, social, emotional and spiritual well-being, we have included yoga, sound healing, and tarot reading as additional recreational services to interested clients. However, these services are never part of the treatment plan for our clients seeking Counseling or psychotherapy services unless clients request to explore the services.

What is art therapy? How is it a worthwhile investment? Does art therapy really work?

The answer is a resounding yes! Art therapy can have a powerful therapeutic effect on people's emotions. People who practice art therapy express their feelings through art, making them easier to understand and cope with. As an increasing number of individuals, families and communities are seeking effective arts-integrated mental health services, the need for qualified professionals to administer these mental health services has never been higher.

We invite you to explore our website to learn more about the field of art therapist and the vast array of opportunities available to improve mental health through this rewarding field.

Schedule an Art Therapy Session with Us

Give us a shot and call right away.

Our purpose is to educate, to inform, and help.

How it works

Procedure of Art Therapy

Visit Us For In-Person Sessions

Make an appointment for a therapy session in Petaling Jaya.

FAQ

Frequently Ask Questions

Art therapy improves the mental health of people who are dealing with addictions, anxiety, attention disorders, grief and loss, dementia, depression, eating disorders, physical illness, PTSD, trauma, relationship issues and much more.

Art therapists often use psychological, spiritual, and artistic theories in conjunction with clinical techniques to achieve the desired therapeutic outcome. The approach has proven to be beneficial even for non-verbal individuals and professional artists.

Art therapy is a psychotherapeutic treatment that uses art media as its primary form of communication. It employs visual art equipment such as clay, paper, paints, and other artistic materials to create visual forms of personal expression.

Schedule a Therapy Session Now

We're just a call away to get started with a tailor-made counselling session exclusively for your wellness.

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We aspire to break through all the stigmas attached to mental health and counseling. Feel Free to contact us by clicking the below button. We are ready to consulting you according to your problems.

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Art Therapy - Best Psychology Clinic in Petaling Jaya

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We help you resolve your issues using visual arts. Art therapists use art to help patients interpret, express, and resolve their emotions and thoughts. Clients work with an art therapist to explore their emotions, understand conflicts or feelings that are causing them distress, and use art to help them find resolutions to those issues.

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Have you ever use art as a way for you to relax or express your emotion ?

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Your thoughts matter! Share your experience with us—quick, insightful, and to the point. Whether it's praise, suggestions, or constructive criticism, we want to hear from you. Let's grow together!🌱