Healing Art
Art therapy or sometimes popularly known as creative therapy is among one such flavor. It is based on the assuption that since visual symbols and images are the most accessible and natural form of communication to human experiences,therefore it encourages people to understand and express emotions through artistic expression using drawings,paintings and sculpture.
Though noted psychologists like Freudand Jung and eminent psychiatrists like Ambrose and Max Simon had always viewed the importance of symbolism and Art therapy as an effective diagnostic tool to identify specific types of mental disorders;it formally gained popularity as a healing technique not before the commencement of the creative therapy movement in the 1960’s .
According to the HongKong Association Of Art [HKAAT], “Art therapy is about using art as a tool for communication and through the therapeutic relationship, emotional, psychological and developmental needs are adressed with the intention of effecting lasting change”.
Patients/Clients are encouraged to visualise, create and catharcize thoughts and emotions through the medium of art which is then interpreted and analysed.However, this interpretation is done by none other than the client himself.This helps the client to gain some insight into his feelings leading towards complete self discovery with a minimal role played by the therapist- that of a mere facilitator.
Art therapy is being popularly used by Clinical Psychologists,Psychiatrists and other Medical Personnel in dealing with and treating a wide array of experiences and mental disorders ranging fromphysical violence and abuse,to grief,addiction,trauma,anxiety,depression,language difficulties,heart attacks etc.at the individual,group and community level.
FIVE FOLD BENEFITS OF ART THERAPY:
1) Art therapy aids in self dicovery self awarness, as it triggers emotional catharsis through self expression.
2) It helps in nuturing a feeling of confidence,self worth and self esteem leading to personal fulfillment.
3) Art therapy when used with other relaxation techgniques like Stress Inoculation Therapy and Guided Exposure Therapy ,it acts as a potent stress reliever.
4) Since it provides both physiological and psychological healing therefore it aids in temporary symptom relief.
5) Lastly, through the medium of visual expression it facilitates in reducing one’s conflicts and problems which are useful in developing needed interpersonal skills and competencies to manage behavior.
In the present scenario, Art Therapy is gaining considerable popularity as a mental health profession as it uses as individual’s aesthetic ability to enhance the physical, mental and emotional wellbeing of all age groups.
NANIKA SINGH
PSYCHOLOGIST – CUM – ARTIST
MOBILE: +91-9501049190
