Art therapy uses creative outlets to improve physical, mental and emotional well-being. The process allows individuals and their caretakers explore feelings and behaviors, which in turn can help them gain insight about problems or struggles.
Many different types of art therapy are used to connect with patients who may have mental issues or be shy or unsure of themselves. People who have participated in this form of treatment have reported being able to come to terms with different emotions or learning more about themselves.
The extensive psychological benefits of art therapy are well documented. According to Good Therapy, it encourages tapping into the unconscious mind in order to find suppressed emotions or memories. This process is essential for therapists to understand the patient and what may be driving them to detrimental behaviors, allowing another form of communication to aid in the healing process. For individuals suffering from addiction, art therapy can help access the underlying cause of the substance abuse and put people on the pathway to clean living.
Canadian Art Therapy Association
The Canadian Art Therapy Association (CATA) was founded in the 1970s, decades after the treatment first appeared in the nation. Today, the non-profit organisation promotes the use of creative treatments while raising awareness about its benefits.
Art therapy may be an important way to help those struggling, but it is important that those individuals also have aid from properly trained individuals who know how to administer care. Art therapists work with individuals battling mental health problems, abuse issues, brain injuries and many other difficulties. Their goal is often to support personal growth and discovery as those suffering learn to express themselves and improve their lives.
Those interested in a career working with people facing mental health and addictions issues can get a fundamental education at Vancouver Career College in the Addictions and Community Services Worker program. For more information, fill out the form on the right.