Art Therapists main aim is to effect change and growth on a personal level across all areas of development (Safe, Healthy, Achieving, Nurtured, Active, Respected, Responsible, and Included). The impact of Art Therapy on a child or young person’s development can support children and young people to improve their well-being and reach their full potential.
Art Therapy is an intensive, multi-modal, child centred intervention. Children referred to Art Therapy are likely to have already received support through the setting they attend and have been identified as being likely to benefit from a deeper, more explorative approach. The use of creative mediums can also make this therapy accessible for children with communication difficulties as it does not purely rely on spoken language. Children and young people can feel at ease exploring challenges through image making and developing meaning together through reflection. Careful consideration needs to be given to the timing of beginning therapy and the service will strive to meet the child where the child is in their current life circumstances.
Therapeutic support for parents or carers may also be appropriate in some cases and sessions can be offered to explore and understand communication difficulties within relationships.