Creative Arts Therapies: Why We Need Them?

Creative arts therapists recognize an inherent relationship between creativity and mental health and wellbeing. The nature of art is experiential, explorative, and expressive. A creative arts therapist intentionally harnesses art to support clients in various emotional, cognitive, social, and behavioral concerns. This might involve physical media such as paint or engagement of the body in movement. 

Each therapeutic discipline offers its own unique benefits and approaches to treatment. The creative process is a vital part of the therapeutic relationship between client and creative arts therapist. In fact, the arts therapist brings an entirely new dimension to treatment and the arts therapist-client relationship.

The role of the arts therapist goes beyond offering a creative prompt. There is more going on than simply adding art into a therapy session. When the creative arts therapist infuses therapy with art, movement, music, etc., they do so with intention, skill, and purpose. 

In art therapy, the therapist guides the client in the creative process, offering choice and empowerment at each stage. The interventions or directives provided flow from the therapeutic work itself and are chosen mindfully based on what the client brings into session. 

The therapist communicates attention, receives with empathy, and provides tangible support to the client through the artistic process. As the client engages creatively with media within the therapeutic relationship, the therapist acts as a witness and container. The arts therapist is attuned to the creative process, and therefore able to ethically and thoughtfully provide avenues for the client to go deeper. 

Ultimately, the art therapist acknowledges art as a vital third component of how therapy and healing works in each client’s unique journey.

Arts therapists are distinct from other health and wellness practitioners who may utilize art or creativity within their own practice. There is growing traction within the health movement that “art-does-good” and so creativity is popping up as a tool in the toolkit of many other coaches and healthcare workers. 

It’s important to note that the “art-does-good” concept is separate from the work of the arts therapist, which is built on theory, demonstrated in practice, and requires professional training. 
The presence of art materials or an emphasis on artistic expression are not the same as art therapy. 

It’s easy to assume that these approaches to mental health are only for self-identifying “creative” people, or those who enjoy hobbies in the arts. Absolutely, such individuals may benefit greatly from an integrative approach to health and wellbeing! However, the beauty of the creative arts therapies is that no specific artistic skill, training, or proclivity is necessary. The art product created may contain powerful evidence and meaning that is often valuable to the therapeutic treatment whether or not it is meeting an aesthetic or technical standard.

Creative arts therapists are found in any and every setting where health and support are being offered. From healthcare hospitals and clinics to community mental health programs, third spaces and educational environments, arts therapists provide quality care with a creative arts lens.