Art therapy

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Art Therapy

Art Therapy (pronunciation: /ɑːrt θɛrəpi/), is a form of expressive therapy that uses the creative process of making art to improve a person's physical, mental, and emotional well-being.

Etymology

The term "Art Therapy" was first coined in 1942 by British artist Adrian Hill, who discovered the therapeutic benefits of drawing and painting while recovering from tuberculosis. The term combines "art", from the Latin "ars" meaning skill or craft, and "therapy", from the Greek "therapeia" meaning healing.

Definition

Art Therapy involves the use of creative techniques such as drawing, painting, collage, coloring, or sculpting to help people express themselves artistically and examine the psychological and emotional undertones in their art. With the guidance of a qualified Art Therapist, patients can "decode" the nonverbal messages, symbols, and metaphors often found in these art forms, which should lead to a better understanding of their feelings and behavior so they can move on to resolve deeper issues.

Related Terms

  • Expressive Therapy: An umbrella term that encompasses a variety of creative therapies, including art therapy, music therapy, drama therapy, dance/movement therapy, and writing therapy.
  • Psychotherapy: A general term for treating mental health problems by talking with a psychiatrist, psychologist, or other mental health provider.
  • Art Therapist: A professional who has a broad understanding of art processes, psychological development, and therapeutic practice, and uses this knowledge to help individuals improve their mental and emotional well-being.

See Also

External links

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