Art is an excellent way to communicate emotions that people otherwise have difficulty expressing. For this reason, it’s become more common for a treatment center to offer art therapy among its services. Foothills at Red Oak Recovery® understands the importance and value of art therapy for adolescents and teens, so we’ve included it in our adolescent therapy programs. Our art therapy in NC is a unique and practical approach to helping teens heal, grow, and healthily express themselves. Call us today at 828.519.5047 to learn more about the benefits of art therapy and how to begin treatment for your teen.
What Is Art Therapy?
Art counseling is a type of holistic care involving expressing feelings and thoughts through art. It can include painting, coloring, drawing, or sculpting. Also, art therapy can include any kind of performance art.
The main goal behind art counseling is to get people to express themselves. Creative expression is a great way to get them to open up. It’s also a good option for those lacking the words or knowledge to express their feelings. Because of that, art therapy for teens is a popular means of reaching teens.
Is My Child a Candidate for an Art Therapy Program?
Determining if your child is suitable for an art therapy program can feel overwhelming, but understanding their needs and behaviors can guide your decision. Our art therapy in NC offers a compassionate and innovative approach for those struggling to convey their thoughts and emotions through traditional communication methods.
If you notice the following signs in your teen, it may be time to consider art therapy as a beneficial option:
- Difficulty in expressing emotions: Art therapy can provide an alternative, creative outlet if your teen struggles to articulate their feelings verbally.
- Significant life changes or traumas: Teens who have experienced major life changes, such as moving schools, a family divorce, or trauma, may find solace and understanding through artistic expression.
- Behavioral changes: Notable shifts in behavior or mood might indicate underlying issues that art therapy could help address.
- Interest in art: A natural inclination toward drawing, painting, or any artistic discipline might make your teen more receptive to art therapy.
Art therapy isn’t just about creating art—it’s about using that creative process as a tool for healing and expression.
What Are the Benefits of Art Therapy for Teens?
Fortunately, several benefits come with using this form of therapy. Everyone responds to creative expression differently, but the benefits can be helpful in the recovery process. People who are open to art therapy tend to benefit more. Of course, some benefits are more common than others, including:
- Increased self-esteem and self-awareness
- Reduced stress
- Enhanced development of interpersonal skills
- Better conflict resolution skills
- Improved anger and behavior management
- Enhanced problem-solving abilities
- Coping skills for dealing with difficult emotions
All these benefits can aid individuals with substance use. For that reason, art therapy for teens is an excellent choice for those needing substance use treatment.
What to Expect from Art Counseling?
Art counseling starts like any other form of therapy. People spend time talking with a therapist and creating a treatment plan. The main difference is that the sessions involve some creative expression through art.
During this form of experiential therapy for teens, the therapist typically allows them to express themselves before providing observations. The therapist might ask questions such as, “How do you feel about the artistic process?” They may also ask teens to discuss certain memories or traumatic events while creating art.
The therapist might observe the artistic process. During this time, they might not provide feedback or guidance. Instead, the goal is to see what the teens create independently. The point of art counseling is to get people to express themselves. Providing too much guidance limits their ability to show emotions.
Reach Out to Foothills at Red Oak Recovery® to Find Healing for Your Teen
At Foothills at Red Oak Recovery®, we understand that watching your teen struggle can feel heart-wrenching and leave you feeling helpless. For them, finding the right path to healing and growth is challenging, especially during these formative years. Our art therapy in NC offers a compassionate, innovative, and therapeutic approach to help your adolescent express themselves and unlock a path to recovery.
If you’ve seen the signs and believe art therapy could be the key to aiding your teen’s emotional and mental well-being, don’t hesitate to reach out. We’re here to support your family in every step toward long-term recovery. Call us today at 828.519.5047 or use our online contact form, and together, we can explore how art therapy can light the way to a brighter, healthier future for your teen.
