Expressive Arts Therapy promotes emotional growth and healing by utilizing creative techniques to tap into our emotions. Sometimes, putting our emotions into words can be challenging, and using a multi-modal approach in therapy can provide individuals with an alternative to talk-therapy. Expressive Arts Therapy can generate deep personal growth and healing for individuals of all ages. This approach is especially useful in children and teens, who may not yet be able to vocalize their emotions – but many adults also find it particularly helpful!
Forms of Expressive Art Therapy
Visual Arts – drawing, painting, graphic design
Writing – journaling, story-telling, poetry
Music – songwriting, playing an instrument, listening to music, analyzing lyrics
Movement – dance, improvisation
Sculpting – ceramics, wood-working, glass-blowing
Drama – role playing, theater, psychodrama
Why Expressive Arts?
Art comes from a deep, emotional place within us and taps into our imagination. This creativity can spark self-discovery, give us healthy coping tools, and allow us to regulate our emotions. Sometimes we simply don’t have words to articulate our experiences or emotions. We often can express our experience more fully through art than simply talking.
Our Expressive Art Therapists often incorporate several types of art (intermodal) with psychotherapy to stimulate creativity and healing. The use of two or more forms of art can deepen our connection to our emotions and allow for greater self-discovery and emotional regulation. It allows us to envision healing and express ourselves through multiple expressive avenues.
Accessibility of Expressive Arts Therapy
Expressive Arts Therapy does not focus on skill of artist, but rather the process of creating. It is a modality used across many demographics, cultures, and ages and is one of the oldest forms of communication. For individuals who have limited verbal communication, expressive arts therapy can be a tool to access therapy, especially trauma therapy.
Phoenix Center Therapists
We have several therapists on our team that integrate Expressive Arts into their practice. We also frequently offer Expressive Arts Therapy Groups throughout the year.
Therapists that Integrate Expressive Arts Therapy
