Art Psychotherapy Clinical Approach
Psychodynamic psychotherapy
Psychodynamic therapy, originating from the school of thought established by psychologist Sigmund Freud, believes that our childhood experiences and early interactions unconsciously shape our behaviors, feelings, and thoughts. By exploring psychological defenses and object relations, repressed emotions can be brought to the surface, allowing us to recognize aspects of our inner world that we were previously unaware of. This aids in managing emotional states or altering life patterns.
The unconscious mind often requires time to reveal itself; thus, psychodynamic therapy is a process that unfolds over time. Therapists provide a safe and comfortable space where, through creativity and open sharing from clients, individuals can reflect on and confront their feelings, thereby learning to navigate their relationships with themselves.
Person-centered psychotherapy
Person-CenteredTherapy, founded by Carl Rogers, places a strong emphasis on an individual's subjective experience and autonomy, believing that everyone has the capability for self-understanding, self-actualization, and healing. Therapists support clients by embodying empathy, unconditional positive regard, and congruence, accompanying them on their journey of self-exploration to rekindle their internal motivation. This enables individuals to shine in their own light and become their true selves.
Person-Centered Therapy highlights the importance of inner self-acceptance, allowing each person to be as they are, to listen to their emotions, be guided by their inner strength, take responsibility for themselves, and continue to grow.
Professional Recognization
The Health and Care
Professions Council
The Health and Care Professions Council is a UK statutory regulator of over 280,000 professionals from 16 health and care professions, such as art psychotherapists/art therapists, drama therapists, music therapists, practitioner psychologists, occupational therapists, physiotherapists, radiographers, speech and language therapists, dietitian, etc. The Council reports its main purpose is to protect the public.
The British Association of
Art Therapists
The British Association of Art Therapists (BAAT) is the professional organisation for art therapists in the UK. It works to promote art therapy and provides professional support and advice to its members. The BAAT represents art therapy within national organisations and has a growing international profile.
Hong Kong Association of Art Therapists promotes and enhance the continued development of art therapy practice, guided by ethical and professional standards.