Art therapy

Children, young people, adults and the elderly may all see an art therapist. They may have a variety of problems, such as mental and physical disabilities, mental illness, emotional or behavioural problems.

NICE recommends art therapy for people with schizophrenia; it is also often suggested for people with dementia. But anyone who has difficulty expressing themselves verbally may benefit from art therapy. However, it may also appeal to those who simply like the medium of art and find it therapeutic in itself.

Sessions can be individual or in groups. They are not like art classes, and clients need have no previous experience of working with art media.

A creative therapy like art therapy can be useful for people who find it difficult to express their feelings and anxieties with words. The process of creating art may help resolve issues, as well as develop and manage their behaviours and feelings, reduce stress, and improve self-esteem and awareness.

Welldoing art therapist Marielle Albers says:

"Living in a society that places a lot of emphasis on rational thinking and the use of technology, means that is easy to disconnect from our feelings and intuition. Art therapy offers an opportunity to explore the different layers of meaning beyond the words and can help re-connect us to a deeper sense of wisdom.

Art therapy integrates psychotherapeutic techniques with the creative process. Expression through movement, art or imagination, facilitated by a trained art therapist, can create an understanding of nonverbal messages, symbols and metaphors. The art therapist will guide you through the process and may share thoughts and interpretations, but not generally use your work to make any diagnostic interpretations.

There is no need to be artistic or talented; all that is required, is a willingness and curiosity to get involved."

To practise as an art therapist in the UK, you must complete a Masters in Art Therapy approved by the Health and Care Professions Council (HCPC).

The Masters can be completed over two or three years, depending on whether part- or full-time.

All Welldoing therapists are verified annually as members of reputable professional associations.

According to the British Association of Art Therapists, there are 11 approved courses in the UK:

• Brunel University, London
• University of Chester
• University of Derby
• Goldsmiths University, London
• Hertfordshire University
• Institute for Arts in Therapy and Education London / University of East London
• Queen Margaret University, Edinburgh, Scotland
• Ulster University, Belfast, Northern Ireland
• University of Roehampton, London
• Sheffield Hallam University
• University of South Wales

British Association of Art Therapists (BAAT)

Health and Care Professions Council (HCPC)