What age groups benefit from art therapy?
Written by
David Nelson
Reviewed by
Prof. William Dalton, Ph.D.Art therapy is effective for all ages with developmental adaptations. Little children work out emotions through play. Adults deal with abstract emotions symbolically. Seniors express their stories artistically. I have worked successfully with three ninety-year-olds. Each age has its unique advantages in therapy.
Children (3-12 years)
- Process emotions through play-based art activities
- Develop emotional vocabulary using colors and shapes
- Build self-esteem via non-verbal achievement
Adolescents (13-19 years)
- Explore identity through symbolic self-portraits
- Process social pressures using mixed media
- Develop autonomy in artistic choices
Adults (20-64 years)
- Address career stress through metaphorical creation
- Process relationship dynamics in sculptural forms
- Navigate life transitions with visual mapping
Therapists modify their techniques according to cognition. Children use elementary supplies like finger paint, but adults work in breadth of meaning. Seniors may create legacy work. I make modifications according to physical accessibility. Art helps people act in accordance with their stage of development.
Play approaches allow children to express feelings safely. A child may figure out divorce by creating scenes with a dollhouse. Adolescents explore their identity through mixed-media self-portraits. Adults express work stress using clay forms. Seniors create memory boxes to help them reflect on and assess their memories. All approaches respect needs at their stage.
There are no age limits on the creative healing benefits. I have seen patients with dementia come back to life through texture boards. Terminally ill children work through their fears of illness by way of puppet making. You should begin exactly where you are by utilizing age-appropriate materials. Continue on your journey as you navigate your emotional life.
Read the full article: Art Therapy Benefits: Transform Your Wellbeing
