Common Art Therapy Questions and Answers (pt. 2)

In this blog post, I begin to discuss and explore some common questions I get asked with regards to Art Therapy. This week I explore some other questions that I get asked about Art Therapy and the role of the art therapist.

What types of art materials are typically used in sessions?

Art materials are of great importance in Art Therapy sessions as they are the tools for self-expression. Some art materials used in sessions include, but are not limited to: watercolor paint, crayons, markers, colored pencils, air dry clay, model magic, acrylic paint, wood, magazines, graphite pencils, charcoal, etc. While any and all art materials can be used in Art Therapy sessions, your therapist may suggest you use or refrain from using certain materials for different reasons. Paint for example, is a material which is very fluid by nature, this can mean it may be relaxing for one person but may also cause dysregulation for others. For a client who may be exploring or wanting to learn more about boundaries, it may be suggested that they use a more rigid material such as a pencil. This will vary on a case by case basis.

How do I know what to do in the session?

Every art therapist may use a different approach and style in sessions - this depends not only on the therapists’ background but also on the setting and clients. While there are many ways to proceed with art-making in sessions, the two main types are directive and open studio based art-making. Directive art-making is when there is a clear prompt or instructions for how to proceed with the art-making experience. In this style, your therapist will provide or guide you with steps or a prompt for your experience and may even suggest what specific materials to use. In an open studio model, clients are provided with a variety of art materials and they have full autonomy and choice on how they will use the art in sessions. Directives can be helpful to guide a client if they find themselves feeling overwhelmed by various choices. Some times therapists may use both interchangeably in sessions depending on the factors mentioned above.

How do art therapists interpret the art created?

Many people often assume that the art therapist is judging or interpreting the art made in sessions. However, this is not the case. Art therapists are trained to look for certain cues, symbols and colors in art made however there is always and primarily curiosity present in the processing experience. That means that art therapist usually will ask prompting or reflective questions to clients to better understand the personal meaning in clients art-work as this is what is truly important. In the end what matters is what the art means to you as the client!

Do I need to bring my own materials to a session?

Traditionally art therapists provide and have a wide range of art materials available for clients in their office or clinic. For virtual sessions, clients may need to provide their own art materials yet your therapist can help guide you as to which you should have. I will typically allow for clients to use the art materials they may already have at home and we then discuss getting new materials on an as needed basis.

How often should I attend Art Therapy?

This decision is based off of many factors. Art Therapy is commonly held weekly, just as you would do for any mental health services especially in a private session. However this can differ. If you have been in therapy for a significant amount of time and feel as though your presenting issues have subsided, you may engage in bi-weekly or monthly sessions. If you are using your insurance and are only approved for a certain amount of sessions or if there are financial limitations, this may also affect how often you engage in therapy. If you are undergoing a period of high stress and need extra support, you may be seeing your therapist twice a week. All of which are fine options and just require clear communication and exploration with your therapist. If you find yourself in a clinic or group setting, Art Therapy sessions may be held as little as once a week and as often as weekly.

Can Art Therapy be done virtually or only in person?

Art Therapy can be done in either in person or virtually! For a virtual session, your therapist may request more movement on the client’s side to show the art or move the camera so that the therapist can observe the process. In person, an art therapist may have more materials readily available and accessible to you while for virtual sessions you may have to get them on your own. It is just as effective both ways!

Is Art Therapy covered by insurance or private pay only?

This depends on the state you are seeking services and what credentials your therapist has. Some states and insurances will cover Art Therapy while others may not. Most private pay therapists are able to provide you with a superbill so that you can then request to be reimbursed by your insurance. Ask your therapist which applies to you!

What age groups benefit most from Art Therapy?

Any and all age groups benefit from Art Therapy! Many people assume it is only for kids or elderly populations but the art-making and therapeutic process can benefit any and all age groups from as young as 18 months and so forth.

Will I have to share or explain my artwork?

Your therapist will likely ask permission to see and explore your work further alongside you - not to judge or try to guess what you are experiencing but rather to serve as a support for you in your process. However, you should always have the choice whether you would like to share your art or keep it to yourself - the same applies for explaining your work. In Art Therapy, the art-work is confidential material and is always the client’s property to decide what he/she wants to do with it.

If you’re in Miami and looking for a compassionate, creative approach to mental wellness, I offer individual Art Therapy sessions in Coral Gables, FL and virtual as well in both Florida and New York. Whether you’re dealing with anxiety, trauma, or grief, art therapy can be a powerful path to healing. Book a FREE consultation call with me today and discover how creativity can transform your life! If you are not in Miami, you can check out the Art Therapist locator here, from the American Art Therapy Association website.

Have any more questions about Art Therapy? Leave them in the comments and I will answer them in part 3!