Summary
In our ongoing blog series, we explore the various elements of Frontline Make Change's addiction support service. Here, we shed light on the concept of art therapy, its integration within our service, and the potential benefits it holds for those who use art therapy for addiction recovery.
In our ongoing blog series, we explore the various elements of Frontline Make Change’s addiction support service. Here, we shed light on the concept of art therapy, its integration within our service, and the potential benefits it holds for those who use art therapy for addiction recovery.
What is Art Therapy?
Art Therapy is a form of psychology that uses art and creativity as a way to communicate. It can allow clients to say things that they may not have the words for and help them to interpret, express, and resolve their emotions and thoughts. This therapeutic approach is particularly helpful for individuals who struggle to communicate through traditional talk therapy, whether due to age, trauma, emotional barriers, or developmental differences. Art provides a non-verbal outlet for expression, allowing clients to convey complex emotions, memories, and experiences in a tangible and symbolic way. In this process, the artwork itself becomes a medium of communication between the client and the therapist.
Effects of Art Therapy
One particularly valuable application of art therapy is in addiction recovery. By using creativity and sensory materials, art therapy can be beneficial in helping to relieve stress and calm the nervous system. It can help clients to express themselves and deal with their emotions in a gentler way.
How does Art Therapy work?
The Counsellor/Art Therapist provides art materials, a safe nonjudgmental space and empowers the client to use creativity for their own healing and well-being.
One-to-One Art Therapy
One-to-one art therapy is a gentle, trauma informed way of exploring difficult issues.
Group Art Therapy
In a group setting, art therapy can allow participants to express themselves and feel connected. This develops their self-esteem and interpersonal skills.
The Therapist
Frontline Make Change’s art therapist, Deirdre McCormick, has a BA in Integrative Counselling/Art Therapy and is accredited with the IACP. She combines art with other methods like cognitive behavioural therapy, motivational interviewing, solution focused therapy and positive psychology.
Deirdre has been working with Frontline as an art therapist since 2017 and provides art therapy to our clients on a one-to-one basis and as part of group work, in our Inchicore and Bluebell services.
www.linkedin.com/in/deearttherapy
Find out more about the services we provide here.
