At the core of expressive arts therapy is the concept of poiesis, a Greek word that is the root of the word poetry, which refers to the natural process of moving from everyday expectations into the world of imagination and creativity that results in art making. Because art comes from a deep emotional place inside you, creative endeavors enable you to undergo a profound process of self-discovery and understanding. Creativity becomes the pathway to the expression of inner feelings, leading to a process of self-discovery and understanding. In other words, your creative process becomes your road to emotional health. What to Look for in an Expressive Arts Therapist (not sure about this part just yet) Maybe in Our Team Psychotherapists and counselors with standard qualifications may use some form of creative arts therapy in their work, but only those with specific training can be registered by the International Expressive Arts Therapy Association (IEATA) and call themselves expressive arts therapists. Registration by boards requires a minimum of a Master’s degree in expressive arts therapy, psychology, fine arts, education, or a related field and, depending on the educational background, supervised clinical work and advanced training at an approved expressive arts therapy institute, along with references and other requirements. Qualified and registered therapists including art and dance, agree to a code of ethics and to maintaining high standards of professionalism in the field.

What are some examples of expressive art therapy?

The NCCATA recognizes six creative arts therapy modalities, including art therapy, dance therapy, drama therapy, music therapy, poetry therapy, and psychodrama. There are some areas where the terms Creative Arts Therapy and Creative Arts Therapist can only be used by those who are properly licensed, as is the case in the state of New York.

• Art therapy
• Dance/movement therapy
• Drama therapy
• Music therapy
• Poetry therapy
• Psychodrama