My unedited version of a press release in the Voice newspaper, "Gone in 60 seconds". May 19th 2008


Art therapy is a form of psychotherapy where art making and creativity is used to help improve the emotional wellbeing of people.  Art therapy takes place at a regular time in the same venue in the presence of a qualified art therapist. By using art therapy, the person, re-discover themselves with the help of their own creativity. People who use art therapy often gain insight into issues that may be important to them, and develop an understanding of the relationships they form with other people. Often the process is communicated through the art making.
Art therapy can be found in the following settings.

Health services

    * Hospitals, general medical and psychiatric
    * Outpatient facilities
    * Eldercare facilities
   
Social services

    * Residential treatment centres
    * Youth centres
    * Correctional facilities
    * Rehabilitation centres

Educational settings

    * Mainstream and special schools

Community settings

    * Art studios
    * Community centres (this includes private practice art therapists)
    * Cross-cultural centres


2. How did you get involved?
I have an interest in creating art and I like to look at other people’s art. I had attended a foundation course in art therapy before studying for the diploma. I became interested in peoples ability to use art to express feeling. Art has been easily accessible since time began and I am interested in the different artistic abilities people have, without the constant need for words.

3. What are the results?

Art therapy can enable change in the way a person thinks of himself or herself when words aren’t enough. The art therapy process can help a person develop a better understanding of themselves and their environment. It encourages self-expression. Using art is a healing activity: this has been shown with both emotional and physical difficulties.

4. Why are most people afraid of expressing themselves?

I have to disagree with the question that most people are afraid of expressing themselves. Everyone expresses feelings through all the senses all of the time. We were all born to be expressive and creative, it is a natural powerful energy that flows though us all. Expression goes beyond being verbal!


5. Why should people be open-minded to alternative therapy?

I don’t consider art therapy to be alternative therapy. Art therapy is a bonafide profession, which is celebrating its 40th year in the UK. Art therapy and its practitioners are regulated and monitored by the Health Professions Council. Art is totally accessible to all cultures and has been since time began as it is non-verbal. Art therapy draws on people’s playfulness and creativity and has been practiced for many years.

6. Where’s a great place to relax in UK if stressed?

Anywhere where you can be creative for example, doodling, sketching, drama, dance, cooking and singing to mention a few. I go out and take pictures with my digital camera. I also have knitting machines and I make fabrics from them. The list of things to do when stressed is endless and don’t have to cost a lot of money. Lots of fun can be had on a budget by being creative.

7. Tips for stressed parents
Creativity can de-stress anyone, as it allows you to get in touch with ones self. Allow for some quality time with your children by being creative and playful with your children.

8. Tips for stressed kids?
Allow children to play and be creative just for the sake of it. Encourage children to develop a powerful relationship with creativity. Make sure you have some relaxing, special and even some magical time with your children.

9. What not to do if you are feeling emotionally challenged?

Share the challenge with someone and get support. Don’t bottle it up. Be creative. With art therapy, challenges can be faced in an unconditional, safe setting. You meet regularly with your therapist and have uninterrupted time together.  The process and the relationship and the use of art allow you to reconnect with yourself beyond words.

Monica Gobourne is an Art Psychotherapist based in Greenwich, south east London





http://www.voice-online.co.uk/content.php?show=13544