Art Therapy

what is art therapy

It is a kind of professional psychotherapy where our body, mind and soul would be concerned in order to treat psychological disorder or enhance mental health.

The clients use the creative process, the art media and the resulting artworks to express and understand their feelings, let go of the negative emotions, reconcile emotional conflicts, foster self-awareness, manage behaviors, develop social skills, enhance self-esteem, improve approach to life and build a clear life direction.

It is grounded in the knowledge of human development, psychological theories, and counseling techniques.

It has to be conducted by a registered or internationally recognized Art Therapist.

WHY

Non verbal
It bypasses human defense mechanisms for the expression of true feelings and thoughts. It is particular helpful for children or people who lack adequate language or cognitive skills or have trouble to express verbally.

Linkage of left and right brain
One of the great advantages of art therapy is it fosters the use of both sides of the brain. Art making bypasses the logical dominations of left brain and promote the use and development of the right brain, hence the psychological balance.

WHY

Self-awareness
Through the process of art making, individuals are often able to gain access into their subconscious and such inner experience can help them to gain meaning of life and insights to their mental block.

Non-judgmental
There is no absolute “right” or “wrong” in art. It provides a safe platform to express ourselves without concerning the aesthetical standard.

Who can benefit

  • Anyone who doesn’t necessary has any arts training or experience as the effectiveness of therapy lies on the art process and self expression rather than the aesthetical standard.
  • Anyone who is experiencing developmental, educational, social, psychological or medical impairment.
  • Anyone who wish to improve his or her stress management, coping skills or sleep.
  • Anyone who is interested in personal development.
  • Anyone from children, adolescents, adults to elderly, can be individual or couple.

What
do they say

“She worked well with some of our most difficult patients, was able to build trust, engaged the teens and established a therapeutic relationship. Her work and endeavor in the unit have proven that she is equipped with the sensibility and skill to be a good mental health practitioner.” Dr. Mary J. Sanders, Licensed Psychologist, Stanford University School of Medicine.

“Mimi always knows what is the best for the patients and is engaging in the ward both individually and as a team. ” Katura, Nurse of the CCP, Lucile Packard Children’s Hospital at Stanford.

“Your art therapy was seen in your work and your therapeutic demeanor like ‘Chicken Soup for the soul’” Geraldine, Ward Secretary of CCP, Lucile Packard Children’s Hospital at Stanford.

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