Creative Arts Therapy

'It is only in being creative that the individual discovers the self' - Donald Winnicott (psychoanalyst & paediatrician)

What is Creative Arts Therapy?

Creative Arts Therapy is an expressive form of psychotherapy, using the same approach as Play Therapy but adapted to the older age range, who may view 'play' as childish and in conflict with the typical teenage developmental tasks of independence, separation from the parental figure, and preparation for adulthood. However, Creative Arts Therapy provides the opportunity for self-expression, exploration, and resolution of thoughts, feelings and experiences in a more age-appropriate and less threatening approach than talking about self and feelings.

Creative Arts Therapy is not about creating 'art' and does not require artistic skills or experience. Creative Arts Therapy focuses on the process and emotional content of creative expression using art materials, and sandplay therapy. The full Play Therapy toolkit can also be used for a full range of expression. Creative Arts Therapy does not require young people to talk about their difficulties or feelings if they are unwilling or unable due to resistance, developmental age, cognitive capacity, or experiences of trauma that are typically stored in the sensory and non-verbal parts of the brain.

Creative Arts Therapists are specially trained to understand and respond to the emotional and symbolic content of creative expression and non-verbal, as well as verbal, communications. Creative Arts Therapy, unlike counselling, does not use creativity as a means of getting young people to talk, instead the communication is the creative arts and healing happens through the creative arts.

Who is Creative Arts Therapy for?

Creative Arts Therapy is suitable for all ages, including adults, but is particularly suited to young people from 12-16 years old. Young People usually attend Creative Arts Therapy individually, but group therapy is also available subject to assessment, and may be suitable for some young people who have had similar experiences or presenting difficulties.