According to the International Art Therapy Organization, art therapy is “a form of expressive therapy that uses art materials, such as paints, chalk and markers. Art therapy combines traditional psychotherapeutic theories and techniques with an understanding of the psychological aspects of the creative process, especially the affective properties of the different art materials.” The National Institute of Health describes art therapy as a “mental health profession that uses the creative process of art-making to improve and enhance the physical, mental and emotional well-being of individuals of all ages”. Art therapy is employed in many clinical settings with diverse populations. It can be found in non-clinical settings as well, such as in art studios and in workshops that focus on creativity development. Art therapists work with children, adolescents, and adults and provide services to individuals, couples, families, groups, and communities.
Allison Grubbs provides expressive art therapy for all ages and is willing to work with individuals and groups alike. Art therapists like Allison are masters level counseling professionals who hold a degree in art or a related field. Educational requirements include: theories of art therapy, counseling, and psychotherapy; ethics and standards of practice; assessment and evaluation; individual, group, and family techniques; human and creative development; multicultural issues; research methods; and practicum experiences in clinical, community, and/or other settings. Art therapists are skilled in the application of a variety of art modalities (drawing, painting, sculpture, and other media) for assessment and treatment.
Not everyone expresses their emotions, thoughts or feelings through words. Allison finds ways to draw her patients out through other media. Even if you aren’t the next Picasso, just picking up a paint brush or a pencil and giving it a try can be very therapeutic and rewarding. Read this article about one man’s personal experience with art therapy:
Or check out this study done by the American Art Therapy Association on how art therapy can help with Post-traumatic Stress Disorder:
http://www.americanarttherapyassociation.org/upload/News&Info/PTSDTreatment.pdf
If you are looking for more resources on art therapy, go to:
http://www.internationalarttherapy.org/whatisarttherapy.html
http://www.arttherapyblog.com/c/mental-health/
http://www.arttherapyblog.com/what-is-art-therapy/
If you would like to schedule an appointment to meet with Allison Grubbs, please call our intake line at 919-929-9610 or toll-free at 1-877-876-6783. She is currently practicing at our Carolina Partners Wellness Center at 1011 Dresser Ct. Raleigh, NC 27609, close to both of the other Carolina Partners offices in Raleigh, NC
