What is Art Therapy?
“Art therapy is a form of psychotherapy that uses art media as its primary mode of expression and communication. Within this context, art is not used as diagnostic tool but as a medium to address emotional issues which may be confusing and distressing.
Art therapists work with children, young people, adults and the elderly. Clients may have a wide range of difficulties, disabilities or diagnoses. These include emotional, behavioral or mental health problems, learning or physical disabilities, life-limiting conditions, neurological conditions and physical illnesses.
Art therapy is provided in groups or individually, depending on clients' needs. It is not a recreational activity or an art lesson, although the sessions can be enjoyable. Clients do not need to have any previous experience or expertise in art.”
What is an Art Therapist?
An art therapist (or art psychotherapist, the titles are interchangeable) is someone who has undertaken training in art therapy approved by the Health Care Professions Council (HCPC). In the UK, art therapists are statutorily regulated by the HCPC and must be registered to practice legally.
