DR. ELVA ANDERSON

According to the American Art Therapy Association,

“Art Therapy is a mental health profession in which clients, are facilitated by an art therapist.  

Utilizing art media, the creative process, and the resulting artwork to explore feelings, reconcile emotional conflicts, foster self-awareness, manage behavior and addictions, develop social skills, improve reality orientation, reduce anxiety, and increase self-esteem.”

Dr. Anderson, states that "Art Therapy is based on the belief that the creative process is healing and to place trust in the process.  Through trusting the process of art making in a safe holding environment one can express their world view to convey a feeling or thought.  Using the arts is powerful and the universal language."

What are the benefits of art therapy?

• builds self-worth,
• improves confidence,
• increases self-knowledge,
• helps reduces stress,
• helps build positive coping skills,
• provides an outlet for feelings,
• helps one to explore feelings that are difficult to put into words,
• addresses personal concerns at an individual's own pace,
• restores balance, energy, and trust
• and  more
  

For more information visit:
https://www.americanarttherapyassociation.org

 https://www.washingtonpost.com/magazine/2022/03/21/childrens-mental-health-crisis-politicization/