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Based out of Timmins, Ontario with
Art Psychotherapist (Qualifying)
Erika Johnson
What is different doing therapy with an Art Therpaist?
Do I need to be an artist to participate in Art Therapy?
NO! There is no art experience required to participate in art therapy. While Art Therapy can be for artist's who create on their own time, the engagement with Art Therapy is more about the process than the final product.
An Art Therapist offers a safe space to express your emotions and assists in weaving your dialogue and emotions in reflection of what you have created in the space. The Art Therapist does not interpret the art, or define how you are feeling. Sometimes, the emotions associated with the therapeutic process may be challenging at times and can can be 'surprising' within the art. Even when offering therapeutic arts directives (art making for creativity), the art therapist holds the space with this awareness with intention around the media used, the potential affect of the directive, as well as how to respond to emotions and verbal raporrt that arise within the art.
Is Art Therapy just for youth?
NO! While creative play is often associated as a avenue for younger ages, Art Therapy is a process that is suited for all ages. Often, Art Therapy is actually a way to actually give the internal self permission to play, be messy and imperfect, and take pressure off of a session being solely about describing verbally how you feel. Metaphorical language and conceptual exploration within the art adds a new realm to scenario's that are explored mentally and verbally.
Do I need to have a "problem" or "trauma" to benefit from Art Therapy?
Art Therapy has many benefits outside of just working on your challenging parts of yourself. Art can be a resource and form of relaxation, self expression, and a healthy coping tool. Art can be a form of witnessing and being seen and heard as an extension of ourselves and our voice. There is no right or wrong way to be creative, and not all art has to be worthy of being hung on a wall; sometimes, its just about the sensory process. Exploratory groups with themes are also great opportunities to make space for yourself to be create, dig a bit deeper, and in regular practice, can serve as 'maintenance therapy'.
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What is different doing therapy with an Art Therpaist?
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