About the work of art therapists, Parsa Peykar says that art therapists study art and psychology simultaneously.
What do art therapists do?
About the work of art therapists, Parsa Peykar says that art therapists study art and psychology simultaneously. In addition to the need for a degree, people who work in this field must have mastered a set of abilities. Art therapists must accompany patients of all ages, beliefs, races, and genders. Art therapists can attend and treat people individually, in groups, families, and groups depending on the different situations in which people in need of help are involved. Art therapists are familiar with non-verbal cues and metaphors that are expressed with the help of art and where there is no opportunity to use words. In the creative process of art, people realize that they can express themselves through art.
Why should art therapy be used?
Through art therapy, we can help the patient emotionally and mentally. Art therapy reduces stress and helps with self-treatment. Art therapy is not just for patients; everyone can discover and improve their abilities.
Parsa Peykar Remarks on talent in art therapy:
No exceptional talent is required to use art therapy. One should not be afraid to express oneself. At the beginning of the creative process, this method may seem a little strange, but you will get used to it after a while. Art therapy is so odd at the beginning of the process because most people are unfamiliar with communicating with those around them in a way other than words and phrases.
In art therapy, the goal is not to create an artistic masterpiece. Therefore, when people learn to introduce themselves in a new form of communication, they achieve calmness, and their healing process proceeds faster.
Parsa Peykar defines the performance of art in two different languages:
– Case and Dalley (1992):
Using various artistic tools, the patients can express themselves to deal with the problems and concerns that have brought them to the therapeutic environment. Therapists and patients work together to understand the artistic process and the product of that process.
– Pein (1993):
The common denominator of all art therapists is to pay attention to non-verbal communication and creative processes and provide a safe and reliable environment in which people can recognize and express their strong feelings.
