Art and music therapists use creative processes to help clients express and deal with physical, emotional, and psychological problems. They treat clients of all ages and backgrounds, either in groups or individually, and they work in a variety of settings including hospitals, shelters, and schools. Their treatments are based on their knowledge of psychological theories and practices, but they deal with their clients’ needs in a different way from many others in the health care professions.
Art therapists invite their clients to express themselves through the use of a variety of artistic materials, such as paints, pastels, pencil crayons, markers, and clay. The object of this activity is not to create beautiful artwork, but to explore clients’ emotions in non-threatening ways. Clients are encouraged to explore and interpret what is going on in their lives through art. This can be an extremely effective treatment for people who find it hard or impossible to express their troubles verbally.
For example, while a young girl may find it difficult to speak about her experience with physical abuse, she may be able to express her pain through the non-verbal medium of drawing, and then speak about what she sees in the drawing. This way of dealing with trauma and pain is not as invasive or threatening to a client who is secretive, ashamed, frightened, or simply private about his or her problems.
Art therapy may be spontaneous, or therapists might give their clients specific instructions. The object is to get clients to express themselves, and then look at what they have created and what it means to them.
Music therapists have goals similar to those of art therapists, but they use music instead of visual art. A session with a music therapist might include singing, playing instruments, moving to music, composing it, or merely listening to it. Like art therapy, musical improvisation helps clients deal with their emotions in spontaneous, non-verbal ways.
Singing is also used to help people with speech impairments improve their speech and their confidence. In a group setting, it encourages people to become aware of others. In addition, playing instruments helps people with physical disabilities improve their coordination and self-esteem.
Art therapy is particularly effective with clients who have AIDS or HIV, cancer, and Attention Deficit Disorder (ADD). It is also very effective in treating clients who have an addiction or who have suffered some emotional or physical trauma, abuse, or loss.
Music therapy works well for clients with mental, physical, and learning disabilities, and behavioural problems. It also helps the elderly to maintain their emotional health and mental abilities. Both therapies are effective in stress management and in dealing with emotionally difficult periods or situations.
Generally, art and music therapists help clients express feelings that are too difficult to speak about, increase their confidence, and help them identify their feelings so that they can be dealt with. These therapies go beyond language, and try to bring to the surface what each client is struggling with.
NOC Code: 3144