Art therapy is a form of psychotherapy, using art and creativity as a medium for expression and communication, often not readily accessible through traditional talking therapy. 

Carl Jung, known as the grandfather of art therapy, discovered that through engaging in the creative act of drawing everyday – he was able to access and illuminate material from his psyche. This paved the way for an integration of the conscious and unconscious Self – a process Jung named as ‘individuation’. 

Art therapy can include drawing, painting, sculpting, guided exercises, clay work, sand tray work and other creative activities, all designed to meet the needs and preferences of the client. It does not require artistic skills and it is not about creating artwork for a gallery. It is highly symbolic and individual, with the aim to engage in the creative act, to facilitate by-passing the cognitive thinking mind – that which often gets in the way. 

 The efficacy of art therapy has proven benefits for the resolution and healing of trauma, working with complex mental health conditions, assisting people living with autism spectrum disorders, and those seeking to resolve interpersonal relationship conflicts. 

Children and young people are akin to art therapy as “play is the language of children” – providing a space for expression that does not require high level literacy or interpersonal skills.