Discovering New Horizons: A Journey through Expressive Arts Therapy for Autism

“Listen to your Art, it has wisdom beyond words.”

The world as we know it poses numerous difficulties for autistic children that we are unaware of or find incomprehensible. In these situations, art saves our autistic children by giving them a way to express themselves or create a world of their own that gives them comfort and joy.

Mia* loves to convey herself through the movement of her paintbrush rather than through words.

Sam* He plays his guitar to help him relax during those stressful times.

Gina* She exercises the plié and balances her inner and outer worlds with her body.

Every one of them has benefited from the therapeutic impacts of these creative activities, which have enhanced their well-being in a manner that perhaps regular therapy cannot.

What is Expressive Arts Therapy? 

Expressive Arts Therapy encourages emotional development and healing by fusing psychology with various artistic approaches. This method employs the arts as a therapeutic tool for change, whether it be through music, poetry, dance, drama, or another creative form (Psychology Today, 2021). 

For kids with autism spectrum disorder, this is more true than ever (ASD).

The use of one's imagination to produce art is the most crucial component of this type of treatment because it aids in both mental and physical recovery. The act of creating is valued more highly in expressive art therapy than the finished product.

How does expressive arts therapy work? 

The goal of expressive arts therapy is to use creative expression to assist individuals in processing and resolving unpleasant or painful emotions. This client-centered methodology aids the person in developing a stronger bond between their conscious and unconscious selves. With the development of a mind-body connection made possible by this therapy, one's psychological, cognitive, and physical well-being can be improved. 

Dance, drama, painting, music, and poetry are examples of creative and expressive arts that assist people in externalizing difficult emotions rather than repressing them. Whether or not the patient possesses artistic aptitude is irrelevant; the focus of expressive art therapy is on the process rather than the final product.

What are the benefits?

A few advantages of expressive arts therapy are as follows:

• Communication without words
• Aids in the discovery of deeper emotions
• Enables the therapist to more clearly examine and track the client's development.
• Improves insight and self-awareness
• Offers a place for the person to express traumatic recollections.
• Creates a sensory experience while fusing the soul, mind, and body together.                                  

Who is it for?

Children, people with special needs and learning disabilities, people who have difficulty interacting with others in social situations, and people of any age who may be experiencing anxiety, depression, or any other mental health issues frequently benefit from this all-encompassing approach to therapy.

Expressive arts therapy employs all modalities and assists in focusing on a creative connection.

Such therapy ought to be carried out under the supervision of a certified and trained practitioner.

Alternatively, you might attempt these expressive art therapy exercises whenever you feel overburdened by your day:

• Use colors to create an "emotion wheel" to depict how you're feeling right now.
• Choose a calm area where you can meditate. Try painting or drawing while listening to soft music if you find it difficult to sit still and meditate.
• Pay attention to your feelings when you draw or meditate. Stay in the moment.
• To express your emotions, write, draw, sculpt, dance, and make choreography.
• Before deciding to return to your regular schedule, immerse in the present and gradually let go of those upsetting emotions. 

* Names changed to protect the identity