Art Therapy
When: Every Tuesday - 11am to 1pm
Where: Room 11, Community House, Fore Street, Edmonton London N9 0PZ
Cost: £7 or £5 (if on benefits)
Open to: Members and casual drop in
Materials, equipment, tea and biscuits are provided.
Contact:
Maia (Art Therapist) Mobile: 07754575283 Email: [email protected]
Introduction
Art Therapy involves the use of different art materials through which clients are encouraged to express and explore thoughts and feelings in the presence of a qualified Art Therapist. The Art Therapist provides a safe, contained and supportive space with different art materials (such as paint, clay, print, charcoal, crayons)
For many clients, it is easier to relate to the therapist through the art object, which provides a focus for discussion, exploration and reflection. Art Therapy can be a very powerful yet safe process.
Why art?
Often when people find things too painful to express verbally, either due to not being able to identify the words to match the feelings or overwhelmed by anxiety, chaos or numbness (dissociation) from their emotions. The arts can be a useful tool as:
⁃ Art is a way to offload awful feelings in a safe environment.
⁃ Art is a less directive and less personal approach. Images, characters can say or do awful things without being too exposed.
⁃ Circumvents cultural and language barriers in a non-judgemental environment.
⁃ Through creative expression, new behaviours and ways of thinking can be practised and tried out.
⁃ Difficult cases such as early developmental trauma, techniques such as sensory motor skills e.g., clay can help stimulate early memories allowing gradual insight and awareness leading to a changing and practicing new behaviours.
How?
Clients may use the art materials in any way they wish provided it is safe for the client, the studio and the therapist. The emphasis is on the process of making art rather than only the aesthetic resulting product.
Community Art therapy.
This is an inclusive group where everyone is welcome.
Skill sharing is encouraged, socialisation is key and our aim is for all who attend to feel included, seen and supported.
Our goal is for all who attend to enhance their quality of life.
Confidentiality
This is a confidential space and all matters discussed are kept in the room.
These courses are run by our ECH Manager Maia Kruger.