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WHAT IS ART THERAPY?

Art therapy is a therapeutic modality, which utilizes art materials (markers, paints, clay, collage, etc.) to allow for the expression and exploration of feelings. According to Margaret Naumberg (art therapy pioneer) “The techniques of art therapy are based on the knowledge that every individual, whether trained or untrained in art, has a latent capacity to project his inner conflicts into visual form. As patients picture such inner experiences, they frequently become more verbally articulate (p.1, 1996).”

A person does not have to be an artist in order to benefit from this modality. Each image/creation is analyzed and will be interpreted according to its creator. An art therapist explores the art along with the client by inquiring about the images/creations, and by pointing out possible connections pertaining to client’s personal/clinical history.

» Expression of feelings

» Promote personal growth

» Identifying areas of conflict

» Increasing communication

» Resolution of interpersonal

conflicts

» Increase concentration

» Increase focus

» Decrease stress

(Naumberg, Margaret (1996) Dynamically Oriented Art Therapy: Its Principles and Practice)

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