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
