Art Therapy for Mental Health Issues | Art Psychotherapist Services | Ruby Mountain Art Therapy

ART THERAPY

HELENA EDWARDS

"You can't go back and change the beginning, but you can start where you are and change the ending" ~C.S. Lewis

HPCSA Reg. AT 0001775

What is Art Therapy?

What is Art Therapy ?

Eco-art Therapy

Throughout time art has been used widely as a form of communication between people. The use of art through imagery and symbols has also been integral for many cultures and religions as part of the healing process and art therapy is a natural progression of this. Art therapy utilises art from a clinical foundation to assist clients progress towards their mental health goals. Art therapy works in a triad of the relationship between the client, art, and art therapist. The art therapist creates a supportive, non-judgmental, confidential environment where clients are invited to explore their thoughts and emotions through art media. The art media is a tangible tool that provides a medium for reflection and meaning-making. This process allows personal issues to be unravelled so that clarity and insight can emerge and tensions can be released. Clients may also develop healthy coping skills, increase self-awareness and a deeper sense of identity. Art therapists use the appropriate approach when considering how experiences have shaped an individual, enabling growth and change to take place.

What isn't Art Therapy ?

@rubymountain

@rubymountain

An art therapist may assist with limited technical advice on art media, but art therapy does not involve teaching art skills. Art therapy focuses on the process of making art as opposed to creating a 'perfect' aesthetic image. The art therapist and client work together to find meaning that makes sense for the client. An art therapist will not interpret or judge a client’s art work. Artistic skills are not required, just a willingness to explore.

What or Who is an Art Therapist ?

An art therapist/psychotherapist is a person who has completed a recognised Masters training and is registered with the HPCSA (Health Professions Council of South Africa).The HPCSA is a governmental body that aims to protect the interests of the public when they require a health care practitioner. The only legitimate training in South Africa, at this time of writing, is offered at the University of Johannesburg.

Eco-art therapy is a sub-group of Art therapy and Ecotherapy. It invites us to expand our awareness and creativity beyond the individual, family and societal systems to include the larger ecological systems. An eco-art therapy session consists of using a variety of materials found in our natural habitat to connect us to seasonal cycles, local plants and animals. The gathering of materials and process of creating reminds us of the integral connection we have with nature. Creating in relation to the earth in this way leads to increased emotional and psychological wellness (Speert, 2016).