Creative Arts
Therapy
What Is Creative Arts Therapy?
Effective Therapy for Adolescents
Based on Integrative Holistic Play Therapy, Creative Arts Therapy offers valuable support by helping adolescents with social, emotional, and behavioural problems to help themselves. As communication can sometimes break down during adolescence self-expression through nonverbal mediums can be a lifeline during this time. Creative arts gives the young person a means to work through their feelings and problems without having to verbally share details they may not have the words to express. Through the therapeutic relationship, and with a co-created therapy goal in mind, the therapist uses the language of the young person, through the creative medium, to help them explore their thoughts, feelings, and experiences. Both directive and non-directive activities are offered, depending on the needs of the young person.
A wide range of creative arts media are integral to the sessions. Known as the ‘toolkit,’ it offers art materials, clay, games, Jungian sand trays, music including young people’s own playlists, instruments, media such as gaming when necessary, movement, and storytelling/ writing. Within sessions there is a focus on both unconscious and conscious processes with attention to the whole person and their environment. During their time in the therapy room, the young person is free to use any items or resources they choose and the therapist engages with them, or as otherwise directed by them if safe to do so.
Who Is Creative Arts Therapy For?
Creative Arts Therapy is ideal for adolescents experiencing
poor school attendance
challenging behaviour including high risk
difficulties regulating emotions
relationship issues
substance misuse
community-based problems including exploitation
loss and bereavement
past trauma issues
underperformance or overcompliance
low self-esteem, lack of confidence
selective mutism
social problems including bullying
self-harm or suicidal thoughts
disturbed sleep or eating patterns
mental health conditions such as depression, anxiety, phobias, or obsessive compulsive behaviours
Outcomes For Creative Arts Therapy
It is important to note that outcomes for Creative Arts Therapy will depend largely on the needs of the individual along with factors such as the young person’s wider environment. Following the assessment/s, goals are co-created with the young person, their parents/caregivers, along with other professionals if appropriate. Therapy will be delivered with these goals in mind.
For Children/ Young People
Some of the positive outcomes for young people include improved behaviour, increased confidence and self-esteem. They may have reduced anxiety including related to attending school, improved sleep, healthier eating, and reduced emotional dysregulation. They may exhibit new strategies for managing their emotions rather than using substances, having experienced co-regulation during therapy. Socially, young people may have more positive friendships involving less conflict as they develop a more positive self-identity and their self-worth increases. Young people may find it easier to make positive choices through having a sense of agency during therapy. They may find their mood lifts, they feel happier and more able to enjoy activities they once enjoyed.
For Parents/ Caregivers
Seeing one’s child grow in confidence, self-esteem, and emotional resilience brings many parents/ caregivers a sense of hope for their child now, and for their future. The saying, “a parent is only ever as happy as their least happy child” rings true here, and when one’s child is happier, their parent/ caregiver is happier as well.