Art Therapy and Traditional Talk Therapy:
Understanding the strength of utilizing both.
Mode of Expression:
In art therapy, the therapeutic expression is through primarily visual art making, Clients use different art materials and techniques to create with the direction and guidance of a trained art therapist. The focus is on the process of creation rather than the final product. Art therapist helps utilize therapy principals throughout art making by utilizing things like color psychology, meaning making and tactile based emotional regulation techniques. Traditional therapy typically involves verbal communication between the client and therapist. The benefit of an art therapist is you are able to utilize talk therapy methods while you are art making. Clients in my practice report an increased ability to be honest, candid and forth coming while they are working on art and engaging in talk therapy
Accessing Unconscious Processes:
Art therapy often accesses unconscious thoughts and emotions through the creative process. Artworks can serve as metaphors or symbols that reveal underlying information to the artist and therapist. Talk therapy explores unconscious processes primarily through dialogue and introspection. Therapists help clients uncover patterns of thinking and behavior through discussions, interpretations, and reflections on their verbal expressions. As art therapist’s we also notice similar patterns often times in client’s art making process such as preferences to material use, color, pattern, design or the way they interact with materials can offer insight into the client. Art therapist’s can often utilize the observation of these artistic patterns to uncover thoughts and behaviors that may not come up to talk through without visual assistance.
Nonverbal Communication:
Art Therapy: Artistic expression allows for nonverbal communication of complex emotions and nuanced experiences. Clients who struggle to share their feelings verbally can use art making to communicate what they have previously struggled to and facilitate therapeutic break throughs that can then lead to further discussion and verbal dissection.
Traditional Talk Therapy: Verbal communication is the primary means of expression in traditional therapy. Therapists analyze spoken words, tone, and body language to understand clients' emotions and experiences, encouraging deeper self-awareness and insight. However, there are limitations as far as being able to facilitate a new way for the client to express themselves which art therapy can aid in to support opening up verbally.
Therapeutic Goals and Outcomes:
The goals of art therapy and talk therapy often overalp as client’s wellbeing is the goal. Goals can include promoting self-discovery, emotional healing, and personal growth through creative expression with art therapy. Clients develop coping skills, enhance self-esteem, and gain a deeper understanding of themselves and their relationships. Traditional therapy aims to help clients gain insight into their thoughts and behaviors, and like art therapy, resolve conflicts, and improve coping skills. Therapists work collaboratively with clients to achieve emotional well-being and develop strategies for managing challenges. Art therapy can be integrated into some of those traditional talk therapy strategies for managing challenges.
Choosing the Right Approach:
Whether you choose art therapy, traditional talk therapy, or a combination of both, seeking guidance from a qualified therapist is essential. They can help tailor the therapeutic experience to meet your specific needs and support you on your journey to your mental health and wellness needs for healing.
Art therapy can be seamlessly integrated with traditional therapeutic methods such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), and trauma-focused therapies, enhancing their effectiveness and providing clients with a comprehensive treatment approach.