Workshop One: Introduction to Art Therapy – Wellbeing

The theme for this day is Wellbeing.  The day will be an introduction to the idea of how art can have a positive effect on therapeutic wellbeing.

You will be introduced to some of the early pioneers of Art Therapy who noticed the therapeutic qualities of art making through a presentation. There will be an art activity that will help to explore the potential of art making to be personally meaningful.  You will have the opportunity to develop your reflective thinking skills through group discussion and self-reflection.

We will also look at visual artists whose work links with the theme of wellbeing. There will also be case examples to illustrate how Art Therapy has helped client’s wellbeing.

Learning Outcomes will include:

• Acquire knowledge of the roots of Art Therapy and be familiar with some of the pioneers of Art Therapy
• To have an introductory understanding of how art can contribute to wellbeing
• Develop an appreciation of the potential of the art process as a means of personal expression and meaning
• To have had opportunities for developing reflective thinking

Workshop Two: Introduction to Art Therapy: Therapeutic Relationship in Art Therapy.

This day will introduce the therapeutic relationship in Art Therapy.  Through a short presentation and discussion, we will explore elements that contribute to a helping relationship in individual Art Therapy. You will be invited to explore key elements of therapeutic art therapy relating through experiential exercises, art making, discussions, and looking at visual artists.

Art making will be an integral element in learning about the therapeutic relationship. You will also continue to experience the potential for art making to be meaningful.  You will have the opportunity to develop your reflective thinking skills through group discussion and self-reflection.

Learning outcomes:

• Acquire an introductory understanding of the key concept of the therapeutic relationship in Art Therapy
• Understand, at an introductory level, the role the Art Therapist has to effect change for the client
• To have first-hand experience of the potential of the art process to be meaningful and aid understanding
• To have had opportunities for reflective thinking

Workshop Three: Introduction to Art Therapy: Practical Applications of Art Therapy.

This day introduces practical applications of Art Therapy.  Through presentation and discussion, you will find out where Art Therapists might work and with who.  We will also consider the potential benefits and evidence base for Art Therapy. You will be introduced to some of the ways that Art Therapy is offered such as individual, dyadic and group work.  Through art making you will also have the opportunity to explore and consider the qualities of different art materials and how they may benefit a range of clients.

The day will provide you opportunities to explore practical applications of Art Therapy through making art individually and with others, and through group discussion.

Learning outcomes will include:

• To have an understanding of the diverse scope where Art Therapists work
• To have a basic understanding of individual and group Art Therapy
• To have developed an appreciation of the qualities of different art materials
• To understand the potential of the art process
• To have had opportunities for reflective thinking