Frequently Asked Questions About Art Therapy

1. What is art therapy?

Art therapy is a form of psychotherapy, that uses creative tools such as drawing, painting, or sculpting, to help individuals explore their emotions, improve self-awareness and promote positive mental health and wellbeing.

2. Do I need to be good at art to try art therapy?

Absolutely not - no artistic skill is needed to benefit from art therapy. The focus is on the process as opposed to the product via expression and exploration. It’s not about being ‘good’ at art, but about being willing to give it a go and see what comes up for you.

3. What issues can art therapy help with?

Art therapy can support individuals dealing with:

• Anxiety, depression, self-harm or trauma

• Stress management

• Grief and loss

• Relationship challenges

• Chronic illness or pain

• Self-esteem and identity issues

• Developmental or learning disabilities

4. How does art therapy work?

Art therapy provides you with an opportunity to express thoughts and feelings that may be difficult to put into words. As your art therapist, I help guide this process, helping you to reflect on your image and your emotional responses to what you have created.

5. Who can benefit from art therapy?

People of all ages can benefit from attending art therapy sessions, including: children and young people, adults and the elderly

6. What happens in an art therapy session?

Although every session will be a little different, a typical session may involve:

• A brief check-in and chat about how things have been for you of late

• Some creative work, which you may wish to do freely and independently, or you may wish for a little guidance or direction

• Some time for reflection and conversation about the art

The format of sessions will vary depending on what you need on the day. You may, for example, just want to chat and not make art at all, which is absolutely fine. I am totally led by you.

7. Is art therapy confidential?

Yes, just like other forms of therapy, art therapy is confidential and follows ethical guidelines to protect client privacy. We will always discuss confidentiality on our first session.

8. How long are sessions, and how often do they occur?

Sessions usually last 60 minutes, sometimes slightly less for younger clients. We would usually meet weekly in the first instance, to build up a positive therapeutic relationship. After some time, frequency may vary from weekly to fortnightly, depending on your needs and goals.

9. How much does art therapy cost:

Sessions with Heart Psychotherapy take place over a period of 60 minutes and cost £60.

9. Is art therapy like taking an art class?

No. While both involve creative expression, art therapy is a therapeutic process facilitated by an HCPC registered professional with specific training art psychotherapy.

10. Can I do art therapy online or only in person?

Yes. I offer both in-person and online sessions, depending on your location and accessibility.

11. What materials do I need for art therapy?

Materials vary but include items such as colouring pencils, pens, paint, clay, collage and craft items. I provide the materials, unless we are working remotely, in which case I provide a small list of materials you will require. In the therapy space you will also find a sand tray, doll’s house, games and natural materials such as shells and stones.

12. How do I find a qualified art therapist?

In the United Kingdom, you can visit the British Association of Art Therapists (BAAT) therapist directory. Here you will find HCPC registered art psychotherapists and you will also be able to locate therapists who are based in your local area.

13. How is progress measured in art therapy?

Progress can be seen in improved emotional regulation, increased insight, behavioural changes, or a sense of personal growth. This may be reflected both in discussion and via the evolving art itself.