To view examples of artwork from Art Therapy sessions, click here. From cave drawings on, art has been compulsory to our human expression. It transcends language or culture. It bridges gaps in our communication and emotional expression. Chronic pain patients often comment that they find their experiences beyond expression. There are no words to describe the journey they have taken. Talk therapy has been exhausted; they feel "stuck" and isolated from others. Language has limits, but art is restricted only by the imagination. Art therapy can add another dimension to the therapeutic process, often providing avenues for increased insight and self-expression. Patients don't have to be artists; they don't have to even understand what they are drawing at the time. Patients are encouraged to keep their art and to reflect on it over the ensuing months. With time, the art brings a deeper understanding of their present situation and of their deeper emotional state. The art tells the patient's "story," their perception of themselves, their past and present challenges and even their life goals or dreams. The art provides a starting point from which to dialogue with the patient and allows for the dialogue to be done from a distance by using the metaphors and characters from the art piece. Often this allows for greater self-disclosure as the art can feel less personal and intrusive than talk therapy. The art can allow one to process events still lodged in the unconsciousness. Events that are left untreated or unrecognized can later appear as physical ailments. It is often much easier for a patient to present a physical complaint than a psychological one. Art therapy can also be done in such a manner as to lift the taboo of traditional talking therapy. Patients may choose to convey their feelings by sending the message through the art. For more information on our Art Therapy Services, please click here. |
