WHAT IS ART PSYCHOTHERAPY?

Art psychotherapy is a form of psychotherapy in which the art form is the primary mode of expression and communication. It creates an accessible environment to communicate emotional issues that can be too difficult or challenging to put into words.

You don’t need to be good at art in order to beneficiate from art therapy.

Art therapy is an established intervention that is practised by postgraduate, HCPC state registered, professionals. They are trained to work with client in a psychotherapeutic framework and are able to provide support to people of all ages who are experiencing emotional, behavioural and mental health issues (BAAT, 2019).

Working with clients creatively and psychologically attempts to secure emotional wellbeing. Art therapists are skilled at engaging hard to reach clients of all ages, regardless of their conditions. The benefit can include  improved social and communication skills, better understanding of thoughts and feeling, increased confidence and self-esteem.

A regulated profession:

In order to qualify as an art therapist, applicants need to have successfully completed one of the postgraduate education and training courses approved by the Health and Care Professions council (HCPC). Only then, can they apply to join the HCPC’s Register of health and Care professionals and use the protected professional title of art therapist/art psychotherapist.

To check if an individual is listed on the HCPC register, visit www.hcpc-uk/check and enter their surname or registration number. Alternatively you can download the free check the register app, available both for Apple and Android mobile devices.

An arts therapist’ right to practice is linked to continuing registration and compliance with additional obligations, such as undertaking continuing professional development. This ensures continued learning and development throughout their careers, keeping skills and knowledge up-to-date, and ensuring they are able to work safely, legally and effectively.

When can art therapy help?

  • When experiences and emotions feel too confusing to express in words alone
  • When life challenges become overwhelming
  • When relationships are challenging and you are finding it difficult to be with/around other people
  • You feel low, overwhelmed confused about what you feel
  • Have difficulties in expressing what you feel and think
  • Have difficulties in coping with changes
  • Talking in therapy is hard.

Contact Me

Working Hours

Monday - Friday: 9:00-17:00 Hrs
(Phone until 17:00 Hrs)

I am here.

EH1 Therapies
28 Forth St.
Edinburgh EH1 3LH