How Teen Art Therapy Works

 

Teenagers can be difficult enough to understand at the best of times, but when they are experiencing difficult trials in their lives, such as depression, stress, and many other psychological problems, it becomes even more of a struggle. Teens, with their incredibly delicate sense of image and self worth, can decide that they’d rather struggle alone than deal with classical talk-it-out therapy. Teen art therapy, however, can be an excellent way for therapists to interact with their teenage patients and help them to deal with their problems willingly and effectively.

Teen art therapy begins when a patient is asked to make a collage, put some marks on paper, or use clay to create a small shape, all with the intent to illustrate the challenges they are facing in their daily lives and that they need help with. It can be done with any type of medium and can take any kind of form. The therapist does not give feedback on the art, and the patient is free to discuss the pieces they create as little or as much as they wish. While the therapist doesn’t outwardly critique the pieces the teenager creates, they do gain valuable insight into the individual’s life experiences and views. When negative behaviors or ideas are illustrated through the work, it becomes externalized and is easier for the individual to deal with. The therapist and patient are able to easily identify and treat many different problems using this method.

 
This is such an effective treatment because art creates a nonthreatening medium with which therapists can communicate with their patients. It is a language all unto itself, and allows for teenagers to express themselves in ways that the teenager controls. This helps to alleviate fear and pain and instead offers a peaceful, controlled experience in which the teenager is able to face his challenges head on at his own pace. Teen art therapy can be a valuable tool to help teenagers of all backgrounds and all experiences to overcome their difficulties and challenges with success.

About the author – Robert Hunt is a recovering addict of 20 years.  He has devoted his life to helping others suffering from chemical addictions as well as mental health challenges.  Robert maintains many blogs on drug addiction, eating disorders and depression.  He is a sober coach and wellness advocate and a prominent figure in the recovery community.
Follow me on Twitter @RecoveryRobert