How Does Art Therapy Work?
Art therapy can provide children with an easier way to express themselves.
Children are naturally creative, and it is usually easier for them to draw a picture than answer questions directly. They may be reluctant to discuss certain topics.
Creating artwork is a non-threatening way to allow kids to tackle tough issues in a creative way. Talking to children about their artwork can provide me with openings I need to get at the heart of the problems.
Art-making can also help a child physiologically, as it promotes deep relaxation and improves focus. Studies have shown it lowers heart rates and promotes EEG rhythms to increase in alpha frequency. Art therapy can increase a child's self-esteem. They develop a sense of accomplishment by creating meaningful artwork.
In session, children are invited to share their experiences, challenges, fears and hopes. I may use art prompts, such as "Draw what your anger would look like if it were a monster". Maybe it's a collage of what he wants his life to look like. Perhaps it's a watercolor of what her fear looks like, if it had a color and shape. Maybe it's a calming guided imagery, or drawing symbols for his strengths, or writing down all the self-defeating thoughts in his head. Perhaps it's a "Worry Warrior" to hold all her worries, big and small.
After the picture is complete, I ask questions about various aspects of the artwork in an effort to understand the thoughts or feelings it may represent. I then use this feedback to develop future exercises to help the child move forward. We might transform the picture to make it feel better or find closure.
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Children are naturally creative, and it is usually easier for them to draw a picture than answer questions directly. They may be reluctant to discuss certain topics.
Creating artwork is a non-threatening way to allow kids to tackle tough issues in a creative way. Talking to children about their artwork can provide me with openings I need to get at the heart of the problems.
Art-making can also help a child physiologically, as it promotes deep relaxation and improves focus. Studies have shown it lowers heart rates and promotes EEG rhythms to increase in alpha frequency. Art therapy can increase a child's self-esteem. They develop a sense of accomplishment by creating meaningful artwork.
In session, children are invited to share their experiences, challenges, fears and hopes. I may use art prompts, such as "Draw what your anger would look like if it were a monster". Maybe it's a collage of what he wants his life to look like. Perhaps it's a watercolor of what her fear looks like, if it had a color and shape. Maybe it's a calming guided imagery, or drawing symbols for his strengths, or writing down all the self-defeating thoughts in his head. Perhaps it's a "Worry Warrior" to hold all her worries, big and small.
After the picture is complete, I ask questions about various aspects of the artwork in an effort to understand the thoughts or feelings it may represent. I then use this feedback to develop future exercises to help the child move forward. We might transform the picture to make it feel better or find closure.
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Alison McKleroy, M.A, MFT Office: Rockridge Wellness Center - 5327 College Ave, Suite 1, Oakland, CA 94618
Email: alison@therapyinrockridge.com Phone: (510) 995-6316 License # 49774
Email: alison@therapyinrockridge.com Phone: (510) 995-6316 License # 49774