What is Creative Art Therapy?

When you think of therapy, traditional “talk therapy” is often the first thing that comes to mind. Or, if you’re a CTC caregiver or client, therapy might focus on a specific goal, such as improving speech or motor functions. But did you know that there are less mainstream mental health modalities, each with their own benefits?

According to the American Art Therapy Association, “Art therapy is a mental health profession that enriches the lives of individuals, families, and communities through active art-making, creative process, applied psychological theory, and human experience within a psychotherapeutic relationship.”

When a person navigates challenges through mental health, verbal self-expression might not always come easily. When words fail, Creative Art Therapy is another way to externalize and process your feelings. The arts don’t reveal things to us until we’re ready, and a creative arts therapist is there to help you take the first step.

CAT Week

While there are many benefits to the creative forms of self-expression offered in art therapies, this option is often overlooked. Depending on your local area, this could be due to a lack of accessible services— but many individuals might not even know that Creative Art Therapy is an option! To raise awareness about creative therapies and their effectiveness, Creative Art Therapy Week (or CAT Week) is celebrated every third week in March.

How can I get involved?

If you’re interested in exploring Creative Art Therapy, a good place to start is by finding an accredited creative arts therapist using the directory provided by each professional organization, such as the American Music Therapy Association or the American Dance Therapy Association. But what if you’re not exactly sure what you’re looking for?

Comprehensive Therapy Center wants to bring ALL Creative Art Therapies directly to YOU! If you’re unsure if this option is right for you or your child, our upcoming Creative Arts Open House offers the opportunity to explore different types of creative therapies, without any commitment.