Art Therapy Benefits: Practical Tips for Beginners

Written by Daisie Team

Published on 10 July 2023 7 min read

Non clinical art therapy is a rapidly growing field that is gaining recognition for its numerous benefits. Not only does it act as a stress-buster, but it also improves self-esteem and enhances communication skills. If you're a beginner looking for some practical tips to get started with non clinical art therapy, then you're in the right place. From understanding what art therapy is to finding professional art therapy assistance—this blog has got you covered!

Introduction to Art Therapy

Before diving into the practicalities of non clinical art therapy, it’s important to have a clear understanding of what it is and why it's gaining popularity.

What is Art Therapy?

Art therapy, in its essence, is a form of expressive therapy that uses the creative process of making art to improve a person’s physical, mental, and emotional well-being. The key point here is that it's not about creating a masterpiece—it’s about expressing yourself. It can include various art forms like painting, drawing, collage making, and more. Non clinical art therapy, specifically, refers to art therapy practiced outside of a clinical setting, often in the comfort of your own home. It's a self-guided process where you are in control of your artistic journey.

Why Art Therapy?

So, why should you consider art therapy, you ask? Firstly, creating art is a therapeutic process in itself—it helps you relax and unwind. Secondly, it's an effective form of self-expression. It gives you a safe space to express your thoughts and feelings, which you may not be comfortable expressing verbally. Furthermore, engaging in non clinical art therapy can help you gain a deeper understanding of yourself, which in turn can improve self-esteem and personal growth. It's also a lot of fun—you get to experiment with colors, materials, and techniques, and create something truly unique!

Benefits of Art Therapy

Now that we have a basic understanding of what non clinical art therapy is, let's dive into some of the key benefits it provides.

Stress Reduction

One of the most acknowledged benefits of art therapy is stress reduction. Yes, you heard it right—creating art can significantly reduce stress levels! The process of creating art is often considered meditative, allowing you to focus on the present moment and let go of any worries or anxieties. Whether you’re painting a scenic landscape or molding clay, the act of creating can help quiet the mind and provide a much-needed break from the hustle and bustle of daily life.

Improved Self-Esteem

Every brushstroke you make or every piece of clay you mold is a reflection of your unique self. Art allows you to express your individuality, which can significantly boost your self-esteem. It doesn’t matter if you’re not the next Picasso—there’s no right or wrong in art. It’s all about expressing yourself and creating something that’s uniquely yours. And isn’t there something incredibly empowering about that?

Enhanced Communication Skills

Art therapy can also help in enhancing your communication skills. Not sure how? It’s simple: Art acts as a form of non-verbal communication, allowing you to express thoughts or emotions that you might find difficult to put into words. This can be particularly helpful for those who struggle with verbal communication. Not only can this improve your overall communication skills, it can also enhance your ability to understand and empathize with others.

Art Therapy Techniques for Beginners

Ready to dive into the world of non clinical art therapy? Great! Here are some simple and fun techniques you can try as a beginner. Remember, the goal is not to create a masterpiece—it’s about expressing yourself and enjoying the process.

Mandala Drawing

Mandala drawing is a great starting point for beginners. Originating from Sanskrit, 'Mandala' means 'circle'. It's a spiritual symbol in Hinduism and Buddhism, representing the universe. However, in non clinical art therapy, creating your own mandala can be a meditative practice helping you to focus and relax. To start, all you need is a piece of paper and some colored pencils or markers. Draw a large circle and then fill it with patterns, shapes, and colors that resonate with you. Let your creativity flow!

Collage Making

Collage making is another fantastic technique for beginners. It allows you to explore your creativity without the pressure of needing to draw or paint. To start, gather a variety of materials like magazines, newspapers, old photos, or even pieces of fabric. Cut out images or patterns that appeal to you and then arrange them on a piece of paper or canvas. Once you’re happy with your arrangement, glue everything down. Voila! You’ve created your first collage.

Clay Modelling

Have you ever wanted to try your hand at sculpture? Clay modelling is a great way to do that. It’s not just for kids—it’s for anyone looking to engage their tactile senses and create something three-dimensional. You can use a variety of clays like air-dry clay or polymer clay. Start with something simple like a small figurine or a simple dish. As you become more comfortable, you can attempt more complex projects.

Painting

Of course, we couldn't discuss art therapy techniques without mentioning painting. Whether it's watercolor, acrylic, or oil, painting is a wonderful way to express yourself. Don't worry about creating a detailed landscape or a perfect still life—just let your brush move across the canvas and see what happens. Consider it as an exploration, a journey where the destination doesn't matter as much as the path you took to get there.

How to Start Art Therapy at Home

Starting non clinical art therapy at home can feel like a daunting task, but it doesn't have to be. It's as simple as setting up a quiet space, choosing your art supplies, and scheduling your time. Let's walk through each step together.

Setting Up Your Space

First things first: you'll need a space to create. It doesn't have to be a dedicated art studio—it can be a quiet corner in your living room or even at your kitchen table. The key is that it's a place where you feel comfortable and at ease. Keep it clean and organized, and make sure you have a good source of light—natural light is the best, but a well-placed lamp will work too. It's your space, so personalize it. Maybe add a plant or two, or hang up some inspiring artwork or quotes.

Choosing Your Art Supplies

Don't let the idea of choosing art supplies overwhelm you. Start with the basics—a sketchbook, some colored pencils or markers, glue, scissors, and a journal for collage making. If you want to try painting, pick up some brushes, paint (acrylics are a good choice for beginners), and a canvas or watercolor paper. For clay modelling, purchase some air-dry clay to start with. Remember, the goal is to express yourself, not to create a museum-worthy piece, so don't stress about having the 'perfect' supplies.

Scheduling Your Time

Now, the only thing left to do is to schedule your time. Art therapy is most effective when it's done regularly, so try to set aside a specific time each week for your creative sessions. This could be an hour every Sunday morning, or 15 minutes every evening—whatever works best for you. The important thing is to make it a habit. And remember, it's not about the end result—it's about the journey, so enjoy every moment of your non clinical art therapy experience.

Finding Professional Art Therapy Assistance

While non clinical art therapy is a great way to explore your creative side and process your emotions, sometimes you might find it helpful to seek professional assistance. Whether you're in New York, California, or anywhere else, there are a variety of resources available to help you dive deeper into the therapeutic world of art.

Art Therapy Services in New York

If you're in the Big Apple, you're in luck! New York City is a hub for art and culture, and that extends to the realm of art therapy as well. There are numerous art therapy studios and professionals who offer a variety of services, from group workshops to one-on-one sessions. Some renowned centers include the Pratt Institute and the New York Creative Arts Therapists. Just remember to research and find a professional who aligns with your needs and preferences.

Art Therapy Services in California

California is another great place for finding professional art therapists. From San Francisco to Los Angeles, the state is home to many studios and professionals who specialize in art therapy. For instance, the Southern California Art Therapy Association offers numerous resources for those interested in exploring art therapy. Similarly, the Art Therapy Studio in Los Angeles provides a variety of services geared towards helping individuals express themselves creatively while addressing emotional and psychological challenges.

Online Art Therapy Services

If you're not in New York or California, don't fret! The beauty of our digital age is that you can access professional art therapy assistance from the comfort of your own home. There are many online platforms and therapists who offer virtual art therapy sessions. For instance, BetterHelp, a popular online therapy platform, has a roster of qualified art therapists who can guide you through your creative journey. This way, you can continue your non clinical art therapy practice at home with professional guidance when you need it.

If you're fascinated by the benefits of art therapy and want to explore it further, we highly recommend the workshop 'From Scribbles to Art Therapy' by Shannon. This workshop will provide you with practical tips and techniques to help beginners dive into the world of art therapy and unleash their creativity for personal growth and healing.