The Benefits of Art in Therapy

Art-making can have a profound impact. It is a natural and satisfying way to express feelings and thoughts non-verbally. Expressive arts can be effective for the general as well as the aging population. Art-making in a therapeutic setting assists individuals to bridge their inner experience into an outward form.

The experiential arts have many benefits including the following:         
    Reducing depression and anxiety
    Helping individuals to relax 
    Increasing self-esteem
    Fostering a strong sense of identity
    Providing a sense of control
    Encouraging playfulness and a sense of humor
    Nurturing spirituality
    Reducing boredom

In additional to above, it benefits the elderly population in the following ways:    
    Improving cognition and memories
    Offering sensory stimulation
    Assisting socialization