According to the Forensic Services for East Anglia: "Art Therapy is a form of psychotherapy in which patients use a variety of art materials to make images that are both personal and meaningful. Through the exploration of ideas and feelings that emerge from that process, difficult emotions and conflicts can be expressed and resolved more easily than by words alone..."

 

This being so, Art Therapy appears to benefit those facing loss, depression, anxiety, trauma, despair, sexual abuse, illnesses, and general 'life difficulties': As well as those individuals who are simply seeking personal growth.

 

At some point in our lives we can all feel overwhelmed by the intensity of their emotions. Art therapy offers an opportunity to explore these feelings in a safe and supportive environment. A safe, secure, and 'happy place', where everyone can work at their own pace; reaching and exploring emotions through artistic expression.

 

Art therapy is not about arts and crafts. Nor is it about producing items for retail. It is about self-expression. It is about enlightenment and it is about empowering. It is about the acquisition of healing insights into one's being and expressing this outside of yourself.

 

People can increase awareness of themselves and others. Cope with symptoms, stress and traumatic experiences. Enhance cognitive abilities; and gain happiness through the life-affirming pleasure of creating something to behold.

 

Furthermore, when a person is creating artwork, he or she becomes completely absorbed in what they are experiencing. This is a meditative activity which generates a real and satisfying sense of wellbeing through the creative action of one's own imagination.

 

As such,  Art Therapy is a pracical tool to encourage the re-development of one's self esteem - which itself - is a key factor in feeling the gratification of self worth.

 

For more indepth information, contacts and links please consult the appropriate professional group listed below.

 

I was unable to locate a website for the South African National Association of Art Therapies Organization. Sorry. But the address I have located is: SANATO. Post Net Suite #119, Private Bag X10015, Randburg 2125, South Africa.

 

If this wasn't bad enough, I couldn't even find an address in New Zealand for the Creative Therapies Association of Aoteoroa. I'm not very good am I ?