Open Access
Journal Article
Art Therapy: Healing through Creative Expression
by
James Thomas
FAD 2019 1(1):3; 10.69610/j.fad.20190930 - 30 September 2019
Abstract
Art therapy, as a form of therapeutic intervention, is gaining recognition for its potential to facilitate healing and emotional well-being through creative expression. This paper explores the principles and practices of art therapy, highlighting how it allows individuals to engage in a therapeutic process by expressing themselves through various artistic mediums. By providing
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Art therapy, as a form of therapeutic intervention, is gaining recognition for its potential to facilitate healing and emotional well-being through creative expression. This paper explores the principles and practices of art therapy, highlighting how it allows individuals to engage in a therapeutic process by expressing themselves through various artistic mediums. By providing a safe and non-verbal outlet, art therapy can help patients explore and resolve internal conflicts, enhance self-awareness, and foster emotional growth. Additionally, this paper discusses the evidence base supporting art therapy's efficacy in treating a range of mental health issues, such as depression, anxiety, and trauma-related disorders. Furthermore, the importance of the therapeutic relationship and the therapeutic environment in art therapy is emphasized, underscoring the significance of the therapist's role in facilitating the healing process. The paper concludes with a call for further research to expand the understanding of art therapy's mechanisms and to improve its integration into traditional healthcare systems.