This is an anonymous post from an art therapy client for confidentiality reasons.
Unlocking Creativity: A Journey Through My First Art Therapy Session
I had heard about art therapy before, but I never truly understood it until I had my first art therapy session. I was curious and excited to find out what it could do for me. I was amazed to find it covered by the NDIS.
Through the process of creating art, I was able to unlock my creativity and explore emotions I had been unable to access before. I truly found myself engaged in a journey of self-discovery, with the help of my art therapist, to uncover my deepest thoughts and feelings.
As I shared my artwork and discussed my experiences, I slowly began to understand my own creative process and how it could help me to heal. From that first session, I was able to recognize the power of art therapy and how it could help me to express myself in ways I had never imagined before.
My First Art Therapy Session
My first art therapy session began with my art therapist introducing me to the various materials I would be using to make my art. She gave me an explanation of the different techniques and tools I could use to create my artwork. I was immediately drawn to the colors and textures of the materials, and I could feel my imagination stirring. I was given complete freedom to create whatever I wanted and my art therapist was there to guide me through the process.
The first step was to simply explore the materials without any pressure or expectation. I started with a simple pencil drawing, and then I was encouraged to be creative and experiment with different combinations of colors and textures. I found myself completely immersed in the creative process, and I was amazed at how quickly my artwork began to take shape. As I continued to work, I found myself sharing my thoughts and feelings with my art therapist. I was surprised at how much I was able to express myself without using words.
Benefits of Art Therapy
It was explained to me that one of the greatest benefits of art therapy is its ability to unlock creativity. Through the creative process, I can explore my emotions and thoughts in a safe and non-judgmental environment. Art therapy also allows me to connect to my inner self and gain a deeper understanding of my experiences and feelings. By creating artwork, I can express myself in ways that I’m not able to with words.
Art therapy can also help all of us to gain clarity and insight into our lives. By exploring our artwork and discussing it with our art therapist, we can learn more about ourselves and gain a better understanding of our thoughts and feelings. I believe art therapy can help us to identify the root causes of our issues and find solutions to our problems.
Exploring My Creative Process
Through my sessions, I am able to explore my creative process and gain a better understanding of how I create my artwork. I was able to identify my own unique style and the techniques that I use to express myself. I find myself experimenting with different materials and techniques, and I was amazed at how quickly I was able to create something that was truly unique. I was also able to gain insight into the meanings behind my artwork and why I chose certain colors and shapes.
My art therapist was also able to provide me with feedback and suggestions to help me further refine my artwork. I found myself experimenting with different materials and techniques, and I was able to gain a better understanding of my own creative process. Through this process, I was able to gain clarity and insight into my own thoughts and feelings and how they led to my output.
Unlocking Emotions Through Art Therapy
I have been asked if I believe that I can unlock and express emotions that may not be accessible through words. The answer is yes! Through the creative process, I’ve explored my emotions in a safe and free environment, although sometimes that scares me. As I create artwork, I express my thoughts and feelings more readily each week.
I have gained a better understanding of my emotions and I have narrowed down the root causes of my issues. It’s a small but crucial step towards my healing.
How Art Therapy Helps Me Heal
Art therapy has been an invaluable tool in my journey towards healing. It has bought me tremendous clarity.
It has also helped me to develop better coping mechanisms. By exploring my artwork and discussing it with my therapist, I have built a stronger sense of self and learned to accept and express some of my emotions in a healthy way.
What did we do?
Over the journey, we have done painting, drawing, sculpting, and collaging. That first session was mainly drawing with different pencils, pens and even hobbytex on different materials.
I’ve really got into journalling. My journal is covered in words, pictures and thoughts. I use it in sessions and between sessions
What worked for me?
I was open and honest with my art therapist. That’s the number one tip. Luckily we had a good rapport straight away.
Where am I now?
Better. I wouldn’t go so far as to say “good”, but I’m on my way.
My first art therapy session was an eye-opening experience. Through the creative process, I was able to unlock my creativity and explore emotions I had been unable to access before without reliving trauma. I thought I knew myself, but we’ve uncovered some of my really deep thoughts and feelings. As I shared my artwork and discussed my experiences, I healed. From that first session, I was able to recognize the power of art therapy and how it could help me to express myself in ways I had never imagined before.
I don’t know if it’s for everybody. My own combination of Art Therapy, Equine Therapy and monthly visits to me psych suits me now and I feel like I am moving forward. There have been times when moving forward seemed impossible, so I’m grateful to have found this wonderful outlet for me.
P.S. My drawing is still pretty amatuer. Don’t let that stop you.