Art Therapy
What is Art Therapy?
Art therapy is definied in Canada as a practice that "combines the creative process and psychotherapy, facilitating self-exploration and understanding. Using imagery, colour and shape as part of this creative therapeutic process, thoughts and feelings can be expressed that would otherwise be difficult to articulate."
- Canadian Art Therapy Association, 2022
Who Benefits from
Art Therapy?
Art therapy can benefit individuals across the lifespan and can include those struggling with self-esteem, trauma, depression, anxiety, eating disorders and those experiencing grief and loss.
Art therapists work with children, teenagers, adults, and older adults in a variety of settings to address each individual's goals.
No previous experience of art making is required to benefit from art therapy. The art-making process is playful, sensory and therapeutic, and less emphasis is placed on product.
What happens in an
Art Therapy session?
While every art therapy session will look different depending on the need of the client, some examples of art making experiences that are utilized to address needs include collage making, sculpting, painting, and drawing. These are thoughtfully led by the art therapist who helps to both guide the experience and draw observations within a relational context. There is often elements of post-art making including counselling and personal reflection.
Who Facilitates Art Therapy Sessions at MCC?
Art Therapists at Miya Creative Care have completed or are in the process of completing an art therapy program that meets the Canadian Art Therapy Association's education standards, including a master's degree or equivalent education combined with clinical training.