About
Art making dates back to prehistoric times when images were created on cave walls to express cultures and experiences. Art making preceeded the evolution of verbal language. All humans are born with a creative urge to make marks, images, symbols and visual dialogues that can be pointers towards relief, healing and change. Art and non-verbal expression are essential elements in our lives, promoting new forms of communication, expression and creativity.
Art Therapy as a therapeutic modality has evolved as an effective tool for healing that can be used as a treatment approach in itself, as a diagnostic or assessment tool or in conjunction with verbal therapy. Creating art helps us to accept and fulfil inner needs and provides us with a better understanding of ourselves in our environment. Creativity can bring a sense of joy and accomplishment even if there is pain. Creativity can also support the expression of needs and experiences.
The Arts Therapy (NZ) Trust offers a number of programmes and/or therapy for children and adults, individuals or groups, using a variety of approaches including “art as therapy” and “art psychotherapy”.
- Creative Kids Holiday Programmes
- Youth Arts Programmes
- After School Art
- One-on-one therapy
- Studio Art Therapy
- ARTiculate: arts therapy for at-risk youth
