Frequently Asked Questions

Creative arts therapists are trained professionals who have expertise in both the therapeutic process and the chosen artistic medium(s). They tailor the therapy to the individual's needs and goals, guiding them through the creative process and helping them make connections between their creative expressions and their emotions or experiences.

It's important to note that creative arts therapy is not about producing "artistic masterpieces" but about using the creative process as a means of self-expression and healing. It can be utilized in various settings, including mental health facilities, schools, hospitals, rehabilitation centers, and community programs, among others.

Here are some of the ways in which Creative Arts Therapy can help:

Non-Verbal Expression: Creative arts therapy allows individuals to communicate and express themselves in ways that may be difficult or challenging through traditional verbal communication.

Holistic Approach: The therapy considers the interconnectedness of mind, body, and spirit, aiming to address emotional, cognitive, physical, and spiritual aspects of an individual's well-being.

Self-Exploration: Through engaging in creative activities, individuals can gain insights into their thoughts, feelings, and experiences, fostering self-awareness and self-discovery.

Emotional Regulation: Creative arts therapy can help individuals manage and process complex emotions, reduce stress, and improve emotional regulation.

Communication and Social Skills: For individuals who struggle with communication or interpersonal skills, creative arts therapy provides an alternative avenue for expressing themselves and practicing social interactions.

Trauma and Healing: Creative arts therapy can be particularly effective in helping individuals cope with trauma and facilitate the healing process.

Personal Growth: By engaging in creative activities and reflecting on their creations, individuals can work towards personal growth, increased self-esteem, and a deeper understanding of themselves.

Creative Arts Therapy is for anyone who feels that they want to connect to a deeper part of themselves. You don’t have to be artistic or artsy because the creative intervention is less about product and more about the process of connection with self through the creative exploration. We don’t believe there are ‘good’ or ‘bad’ clients, all our clients are just enough.

It's important to note that the suitability of creative arts therapy depends on the individual's preferences, comfort level with artistic expression, and specific therapeutic goals. Trained creative arts therapists assess each client's needs and tailor interventions accordingly. It is as intense or gentle as you want it to be. Creative arts therapy can be used as a primary form of therapy or integrated with other therapeutic approaches, depending on the client's unique circumstances.

Dramatherapy, is a form of psychotherapy that uses theatrical and dramatic techniques to facilitate personal growth, emotional expression, and psychological healing. It combines the principles of psychology and drama to help individuals explore and understand their emotions, thoughts, and behaviors through creative and imaginative processes.

In dramatherapy, individuals engage in a variety of dramatic activities and exercises, such as role-playing, improvisation, storytelling, and creative performance. These activities provide a safe and structured space for clients to explore their feelings, relationships, and life experiences in a unique and engaging way. The therapist guides and supports individuals as they use drama as a means of self-expression and self-discovery.

The Sesame methodology is an approach to Dramatherapy, underpinned by Jungian Psychology, through myth, story, movement with touch and sound, drama, and play. Sesame aims to reveal connections between our conscious and unconscious states, by adopting a symbolic attitude and encouraging imaginative explorations, in order to establish a sense of balance and a more integrated state. It aims to create a link between the physical, emotional and mental aspects of ourselves and bring these into harmony through embodied exploration.

Sesame helps people to come to terms with their difficulties through getting to know themselves better. “It is likely to create harmony where there is chaos” (Lindkvist, 1998:58). It helps to create an inner balance… because we aim to help people discover balance through symbols, metaphor and the tension of opposites, indirectly addressing issues and offering the security of exploring difficult and dark areas of the Self, which are most challenging to face directly.

Creative Arts Therapy can be beneficial for a wide range of clients, as it offers a versatile and non-traditional approach to therapy. It is particularly well-suited for individuals who may find verbal communication challenging, prefer alternative forms of expression, or seek a more holistic and experiential therapeutic experience. Examples of clients and challenges for which creative arts therapy is beneficial, are as follows:

Children and Adolescents: Young individuals often have rich imaginations and may struggle to express themselves verbally. Creative arts therapy provides a means for them to communicate, explore emotions, and work through challenges in a developmentally appropriate way.

Trauma Survivors: Creative arts therapy can be effective in helping individuals process and cope with traumatic experiences. Artistic expression can provide a safe outlet for releasing emotions related to trauma and can support the healing process.

Individuals with Mental Health Challenges: Creative arts therapy can be used as a complementary approach for individuals dealing with conditions such as depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, and schizophrenia. It can help manage symptoms, improve emotional regulation, and foster self-awareness.

Substance Mis-Use/Abuse and Addiction: Expressive arts therapy can aid in exploring the underlying emotional issues contributing to addiction, while also providing healthy ways to cope and manage cravings.

Grief and Loss: Creative arts therapy can support individuals dealing with the loss of a loved one or other significant life changes. It provides an avenue for expressing complex emotions and navigating the grieving process.

Individuals with Communication Disorders: For those with speech or communication disorders, creative arts therapy offers an alternative way to express thoughts, feelings, and experiences.

Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD): Creative arts therapy can be adapted to accommodate the sensory needs and preferences of individuals with ASD, providing a structured and engaging mode of self-expression and communication.

Stress and Burnout: Engaging in creative activities can reduce stress, promote relaxation, and enhance overall well-being for individuals dealing with high levels of stress or burnout.

Couples and Families: Creative arts therapy can facilitate communication and interaction within couples and families, helping them explore dynamics, resolve conflicts, and strengthen relationships.

Elderly Individuals: Creative arts therapy can be used to enhance the quality of life for older adults by providing opportunities for self-expression, cognitive stimulation, and social engagement.