Erin V. Jacobsen, MA ATR-BC LCAT Licensed Creative Arts Therapist
ART THERAPY IS
RIGHT FOR...
...Everyone! Art is a universal language, so all ages can benefit. Many myths exist around art therapy: that it is only for children, or that you have to be an artist or know how to make art. While art instruction is not a primary part of art therapy, I will aid you in learning techniques that best help you express yourself, regardless of age or experience. There is no "right", "wrong" or "typical" art-- just the kind that helps you express yourself, better understand your feelings, and grow as a person. YOU determine the form that it takes!
Art therapy provides a different way of communicating and expressing what is inside your heart and mind. While traditional art therapy tools are pencils, paper, and paint, the options are endless. My studio art training and many years practicing art therapy provide ample experience creating art out of just about anything--spray paint, collage, digital photography, sewing, clay, recycled goods, or even office supplies. My job is to help give your thoughts a concrete form that you can see and touch. Taking the abstract, and making it tangible.
As you can see below, age and experience do not eliminate the need to create and express. It just changes how we do it. Art therapy is truly for everyone, and I offer an inclusive and safe space for all!
Child Art Therapy
Children soak up the information around them from a very early age, but do not always have the ability to understand and process what they experience. Art allows them to give form and shape to their ideas and questions. It becomes their language.
Adult Art Therapy
Adulthood has its own challenges, especially when its time to support a family, hold a job, pay the bills, etc. The stress involved is greatly reduced by having support, such as an art therapist. Many adults feel their artwork is not “good enough”, but the authenticity of their work, and the feelings that fuel it, are always enough.
Adolescent Art Therapy
Adolescence is tumultuous, confusing, and exciting. Issues of identity, purpose, and acceptance can lead to teenagers feeling lost and insecure. This is also a common stage in development where mental illnesses surface, adding to the anxiety and difficulty of puberty and growing up. Art therapy takes the pressure off “saying the right thing”, because the art speaks for itself.
Older Adult Art Therapy
Older adults greatly benefit from art therapy as well, for it gives an outlet for activity and connection. For those who have lost some of their ability to verbally communicate or remember recent events, the art they create serves as a concrete account of the session and a way or organize thoughts.