These days, there is a general increase in mental health awareness. Therefore, many people are increasingly acknowledging the need to manage things like stress, anxiety and the like. One of the really fun and light-hearted ways to inculcate better mental health is through art therapy.
Art therapy is a legitimate form of psychotherapy that encourages one to express themselves freely through activities like painting, colouring, sculpting, and so on.
It has been used as a remedial method for conditions like anxiety, depression and others. Additionally, it is also used as a diagnostic method under certain conditions.
Who is Art Therapy for
There are several forms of art therapy these days, ranging from casual sessions to more serious psychotherapy sessions. Additionally, the more formal therapy programs are prescribed and done under the close supervision of trained and certified therapists.
Furthermore, these sessions are done in conjunction with other methods of therapy such as Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), group therapy and more.
Here are some of the groups that benefit from formal art therapy sessions. Note that formal therapy is also prescribed for those undergoing rehabilitation and recovery from physical ailments.
- Those who suffer from aging and motor related issues
- Cancer patients
- Those who suffer from depression and anxiety
- Those with eating disorders
- Those with family and relationship problems, as well as other psychosocial issues
- Substance addicts and patients suffering from other addictions
- Adults facing severe stress
- Children with learning disabilities
- Those who fall within the autism spectrum
- Children and adults who have post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD)
- As part of therapy for those who have suffered brain injury
- Others
Many psychology therapy agencies also offer more casual sessions these days, to cater for less formal therapy sessions. These sessions cater for groups like:
- Corporate team building
- Corporate communication enhancement programs
- Parents and their children, for relationship building
- Individuals who want to explore themselves
How Art Therapy Works
Firstly, it is important to note that art therapy is not an art lesson. It merely uses artistic platforms in order to allow individuals to explore their emotions and characteristics at a deeper level. Additionally, therapists are able to better gauge a patient’s thoughts through their artwork.
Furthermore, patients are encouraged to analyse their own works and explore what they’re thinking and feeling through its creation. This then leads to better self-understanding and improved insight. Subsequently, this will help you develop better coping skills for challenges faced.
Where to Go for Art Therapy Sessions
There are many organisations in Malaysia that offer art therapy to the public, including groups, companies, individuals and families.
Here are some of them:
The Art Therapy Academy (ATA)
Located in Puchong, The Art Therapy Academy (ATA) offers one-to-one art therapy sessions, as well as group sessions for corporations. Professionally-trained therapists conduct all their sessions. Additionally, they also train art therapists themselves.
Address: S9-3, Persiaran Kelicap, Setia Triangle, 11900 Bayan Lepas, Pulau Pinang
Contact no: 017-901 7408
Website: arttherapy.my
Facebook page: Art Therapy Academy
Opening hours: Mondays and Tuesdays, 10:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m., Wednesdays to Fridays, 6:00 p.m. – 8:00 p.m., Saturdays and Sundays, 9:00am – 5:00 p.m.
The Wave Clinic
The Wave Clinic is a group of professional psychologists who offer art therapy as part of their services. Their sessions are open to teens and young adults on a weekly basis. Subsequently, their activities include pottery, painting, jewellery making, dance and drama.
Address: Level 23, Nu Tower 2, Level Jalan Tun Sambanthan, Kuala Lumpur Sentral, 50470, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia.
Contact no: 03-27271799
Website: thewaveclinic.com
Facebook page: The Wave Clinic
Instagram page: thewaveclinic
Opening hours: Always open (by appointment)
KitaReka by Humankind
HumanKind is a social enterprise that believes in community support and community building. Therefore, they provide several expressive arts initiatives, one of which is KitaReka. To clarify, KitaReka is an open studio where you can create, reflect and discover.
In short, they offer session every Saturday morning with a maximum of 8 participants with all materials provided. Session fees are RM75 per session or RM600 for 10 sessions.
Address: #3-29, Kedai KL, MAHSA Avenue
Website: humankind.my
Facebook page: HumanKind
Instagram page: humankind.my
Session time: Saturdays, 10:30 a.m. – 12:00 p.m.
Prioritise Your Mental Health
To conclude, it is important to remember that art therapy isn’t a magic cure-all for any issues you may be facing. However, it does provide a platform for you to work through those issues in a healthy manner.
To be sure, the methods underscoring this therapy do take some time to work. Therefore, it’s important not to give up and to keep at it until you’re where you want to be.
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