Art Therapy and Counselling

Art therapy can be a powerful tool for transformation, healing and growth. It is a form of therapy that encourages and supports people to express feelings and experiences using visual art materials in a safe, supportive, therapeutic environment. It can be beneficial for children, adolescents and adults who are dealing with a variety of challenges in their lives. Basic art and play materials are provided, such as paint, pastels, clay, puppets and sandtray. People are invited  and supported to  use whatever materials they find appealing and helpful to "tell their stories.” Marijan  works with clients to develop a sense of trust and safety, and to guide the process, attending to client needs and the issues presented. By the process of creating and reflecting, what is difficult to see and feel can be made visible and more manageable, and over time be healed and transformed .

Art Therapy for Children

Children usually find art therapy to be an enjoyable experience, and one that is less intimidating than more “adult” forms of therapy.  It uses creativity, play and non-verbal forms of expression to help children make sense of their feelings and experiences, and support their sense of mastery and self-esteem.  Marijan works collaboratively with parents to support each child's well-being and development.

The Process

At the first session, Marijan meets with the parents alone to gather information, discuss issues of concern and answer any questions.  Marijan will begin working with the child after this initial meeting.  They will be invited to use any of the art and play materials that interests them, and the therapist gently guides the process while following their lead.

Marijan may work with the child for the whole session, or may also meet with parents for a small portion of the session to discuss how the child is doing in therapy and in their day-to-day life. Occasionally, it may be necessary to schedule a separate counselling session for the therapist and parents.

Practical things

Play and art-making can sometimes be drippy, splattery and messy, so comfortable and easy-to-wash clothing is best.

Also, children often want to take their art creations home with them, so they may need to carry and transport art work that is still wet.

Art Therapy for Adolescents

Therapeutic work with adolescents usually involves a blending of verbal and non-verbal approaches.  Adolescents sometimes struggle with ways to express themselves, and many find creative outlets such art and poetry to be helpful. Making art can also offer a welcome distraction and a different focus of attention for those who feel self-conscious or uncomfortable about attending counselling.

Adolescents are able to process their emotions and make sense of their experiences in a safe, supportive and creative environment. Marijan offers support for their developing independence and helps to strengthen their sense of identity and self-esteem.

The Process

Adolescents usually participate in sessions on their own.  Marijan will work to begin building a safe, trusting environment, and assist them in finding ways of self-expression. Some adolescents find it easier to talk about their concerns and experiences while focused on materials. For others, who may not want to talk at all, the art can provide the sole outlet for their emotions and struggles. Marijan matches and works with the adolescent's preferred communication style to help facilitate understanding, and build resiliency.

Art Therapy for Adults

Art therapy can offer adults a creative and sensory experience that is often missing in their daily lives.  Many adults remember enjoyable childhood experiences of becoming absorbed in a creative activity: building a sandcastle, finger painting, or cutting and pasting coloured scraps of paper.
They also remember feeling a sense of accomplishment at what they made; relief and release after pounding a piece of clay; or the sensory pleasure of stirring paint brushes in a jar of water .  Art therapy provides the opportunity to re-connect with these experiences and with the creative, curious and imaginative aspects of ourselves.

Art therapy also offers an alternative way of exploring and working through  issues in a therapeutic environment of safety, trust and support.   Marijan works collaboratively with clients to reflect on their art and experiences and find meaning and insight.  Through this process, clients often discover  deeper understanding of their issues, strengths and capacity for growth.

The Process

The first one or two sessions are usually spent gathering information about the client's past history, present concerns,  personal strengths and other supports.

In subsequent sessions, depending on the needs of each individual client and the issues presented,  a variety of techniques and exercises may be introduced to promote deeper understanding. Marijan  may invite  the client to explore using art materials, and offer suggestions and support when needed.  Time is spent towards the end of each session     reflecting on the creative process and finished product and  how they may relate to the presenting issues and offer meaning for people's lives.