When we embark on any journey of transformation, whether it is losing weight, quitting smoking, having a baby or any other number of lifestyle changes, there is essentially a process of shedding the old self and an emergence of a new self.

However  if there is not a conscious awareness of leaving behind that which was not working for us along with the old self, it is likely that any change will not be permanent and old habits, beliefs and behavior will creep into our new way of being.

Creative arts counseling is a unique method that utilizes creativity, relaxation, visualization meditation and conversation to open where we are in our lives, how we got there and where we would like to go. It is a way of coming to know what we want and what we need for long lasting change.

 When we create in a space that is safe and comfortable, essentially it is our true selves that are being constructed on the page. It becomes easier to recognize elements of ourselves when they are reflected back at us through our visual images. Creative arts counseling is for anyone who needs to look inside themselves for change and discover their own truth.

The best thing about change is that the power to do it, all sits within us. It is a power that we have the ability to access anytime we need. Right now, we can begin to mould our lives to any way we see fit. With the right tools change is possible. 

Creative arts counseling is unique in that there is no set layout or structure to adhere to, every client is different therefore every process is different. Sessions are tailored to the individual and fit to where the client wants to lead to. We all have our own answers to life’s questions, it is our right to express and harness them as confidently and openly as we can. The following is an example of how a Creative arts Counselor may embark on a counseling journey with their client.

Introduction Session                      “Baby steps”

Client and counselor get to know each other. The story of what is working in the client’s life and what is not working is opened. Together there is a new direction unfolded and a loose plan is discussed to achieve that.

Session One                                  “Internal landscape”

Client is to create what their sense of self looks like in a landscape “If your life right now was a landscape what would that look like? Is it a sunny field, a barren landscape, a beach scene? Is it full of people and things or is it isolated, etc.

This process defines for the client exactly where they are and how they see their lives presently. What is in their lives and what may be missing? Where the landscape is becomes very telling for the client and their associations with that particular place.

Session Two                                  “Release and let go”

Client identifies where in their lives they are carrying the past with them and what they need to let go of. Client creates an image that represents their feelings toward an individual / event from the past. Through a process of visualization and breath the feelings are released from the body and replaced with love and forgiveness. There is a further image created on transparent paper that overlaps the initial representation to symbolize new found feelings of the individual/ event.

This process brings to the client a method to let go of what is keeping them in the past. The symbolism of the transparent piece still acknowledges the event/ person but the client is merely replacing and coming to know new feelings that will work for the client.

These are only a few examples of the types of activities that can be explored through creative arts counseling. Just as our imagination is an unlimited source of inspiration and creativity, so too is creative arts counseling.

Read more of Tabitha's articles:

Mother Knows Best

Creativity For Wellbeing

Womb Wisdom