EXPRESSIVE ARTS THERAPY

Imagery is the first language humans adopt in life. The human eye translates an image into meaning. It is an innate part of a child’s development, whether in the form of flash cards for learning or simply learning to interpret stories through picture books before learning to read. In everyday life we are surrounded by images and symbols that communicate a message. Imagery is a language we all understand, without really knowing why. Art therapy is an extension of imagery communication. Using art to express oneself implies that there are no contextual boundaries to thought and creation, which allows the free expression of ideas and feelings that are otherwise difficult to verbalise. This can be a powerful therapeutic tool in any setting, and is becoming widely recognised throughout psychology and wellbeing literature. 

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Expressive Arts Therapy combines different creative modalities (visual art, movement, play, drama, poetry, sound) to best support the expression of the internal world. This allows a client to interact with themselves and enhances self awareness that completely supports their autonomy.

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Freud and Jung’s theories of the unconscious gave way to the idea that the human experience is naturally translated best, in forms of visual symbols and images (ie dreams) - a key 🔑 of sorts to the normally locked door of the unconscious mind. 

The logic behind using a creative process (such as expressive arts therapy) to unlock emotional meaning without conventional barriers, is grounded in neuroscience. It’s one thing to access this part of the brain but the real power lies in forming new neural pathways and locking in new behaviours. Neuro-plasticity is a game changer in arts therapy with the unconscious mind. Take a look at the neuroscience link below for an in depth explanation (very in depth!).

Arts therapy is found in many forms and its principle purpose is to mould to the needs of each individual. Painting, drawing, sculpture, collage... in whatever medium the client feels comfortable using, as well as singing, dancing, play, movement, sound making and drama.

The aim of Ipsarty is to provide a safe, supportive and therapeutic environment to create and share. Each client will reveal their own personal insights in they way they choose and in their own time.

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We are influenced by these approaches and guiding frameworks:

Sensory-based Relational Therapy

Gestalt Therapy

Trauma Informed

Polyvagal Theory

Pyschosomatic Framework

Expressive Therapies Continuum Framework
Neurodiversity Framework

Critical Disability Theory

Socio Cultural Framework

Open Studio Approach

Developmental Theory

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