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Writer's pictureJoella Angerson

What are Creative Therapies?

Many of us have heard of the typical forms of therapy to treat mental health disorders. CBT (Cognitive Behavioural Therapy), DBT (Dialectical Behavioural Therapy) and BA (Behavioural activation) to name a few, but how much do we know about creative and artistic therapies and the impact they can have on our mental well-being? 

Having spent some time during my university degree, working as part of the Psychology department of a Tier 4 CAMHS Hospital, I had the opportunity to work alongside therapists, delivering creative therapies and gained insight into how these are carried out, and their benefits. 


It's important to note that you don't need to be skilled or experienced in any of the forms to benefit from them. They are suitable for people of any age and background, and although they may be useful for some people, might not be for others, and that is okay. Put simply, they can be a great way for people to express how they are feeling, without having to verbalise this, they can help you discover new ways of looking at problems/situations and give you the time and space to reflect in a safe, non- judgemental environment.

The main types of creative therapies offered in the UK are:


  • Art Therapy

  • Dance movement psychotherapy / Dance therapy

  • Drama therapy

  • Music therapy


Art Therapy

What is it?

Art Therapy is a form of therapy that allows individuals to creatively express their feelings and emotions through techniques such as painting, drawing, colouring or sculpting. It is designed for therapists to examine psychological and emotional meanings in art and interpret messages that are often found in peoples work. 


What to expect?

Initially, you'll meet with your therapist to speak about yourself and what you'd like to get out of the therapy. You'll come up with a treatment plan which best suits you. You'll typically use pens, pencils, crayons and paints during sessions to create pieces of art work, whilst an art therapist either produces a piece of work themselves, or will sit quietly and observe whilst you work. The therapist will talk with you, to help explore your art, what it might mean and how you felt when you were making it. They might ask you questions about the colours you chose to use, or the theme you picked, but not everything will need to have meaning. You can talk to your therapist whilst you are creating your work, or you can remain quiet, both are completely accepted and you won't be pressured into engaging or doing anything you're not comfortable with. 


Who is it for?

Art therapy can help with a number of conditions including, anxiety, depression, personality disorders and trauma, as well as individuals that are experiencing grief, stress, self-esteem problems, physical illness and disabilities. 


Dance movement psychotherapy

What is it?

Dance movement psychotherapy or dance therapy is an expressive form of therapy involving physical body movement. It can be particularly useful in relieving stress and managing mood. Dance therapy can aid in self-esteem, awareness and provide a safe, comfortable place for individuals to express their feelings. It is based on the idea that emotion and motion are linked, and as such, is commonly used to treat cognitive and psychological problems. 


What to expect?

Sessions vary in how they are run and what they offer, but always focus on the same principles of providing a safe and therapeutic environment for users to bring about new ways of coping with difficulties in their lives. Sessions can be run individually, or as a group and can be structured or non-structured. Your drama therapist will speak with you at the beginning of your sessions, to discuss what you'd like to get out of the therapy, and come up with a plan which best suits you. Sessions often begin with warm up and verbal check ins. You might decide on a theme for the session with the therapist, or they might make some suggestions based on your needs. You'll be guided through dance or other movement forms, either with the therapist or on your own whilst they observe. They may sometimes mirror your movement, to show empathy and validation and encourage you to focus on your movement and breathing.


Who is it for?

Dance therapy can be used for a wide variety of conditions including, anxiety, depression, autism, as well as family conflicts and low self- esteem. Dance therapy is often used alongside more traditional therapies, to build on and complement them. 


Drama Therapy

What is it? 

Drama therapy uses theatre techniques, such as roleplay and storytelling, working with clients in both verbal and non-verbal means.


What to expect?

Though drama therapy can be done on an individual basis, it is more commonly run in a group setting. You might use puppets or masks to help tell a story, enabling you to learn about behaviours and your reactions to others. Many sessions can be planned and structured by the therapist; however, others can be more fluid and spontaneous. You can decide with the therapist how you'd like your sessions to run. Drama therapy works by helping individuals to manage and overcome obstacles and it's hoped that by taking on specific roles, a person can gain personal insight and break free from barriers (Landy, R. J., & Montgomery, D. T. (2012). 


Who is it for?

Drama therapy can be beneficial for a number of conditions such as addiction, anxiety and depression, as well as individuals or families experiencing loss, isolation and conflict.


Music Therapy

What is it?

Music therapy is a therapy which involves exploring music and sound. It involves listening to, creating and reflecting on music and sounds.


What to expect?

You may listen to music with your therapist, or produce your own music/sounds with instruments or your own voice. Your therapist will usually provide you with instruments that are easy to use. You will be asked to connect with your emotions and feelings to direct actions and get the most out of the sessions. For example, if you are feeling anxious, you might listen to music that will relax and calm you down (I find this very helpful myself, when I need to ground myself and focus on something), If you are feeling frustrated and angry, you may want to produce or listen to louder, more intense music to release those feelings. Engaging with music can, activate regions of the brain that are responsible for memory, emotions, decision making etc (Altenmüller E, Schlaug G. Apollo’s gift: New aspects of neurologic music therapy, 2015). Lower heart rate, as well as relieve stress and encourage feelings of calm.


Who is it for?

Music therapy is suitable for a range of people to help with lifting your mood, reducing anxiety and depression, processing trauma as well as improving sleep and reducing stress.

As I said at the beginning, the same form of therapy will not have the same outcome for everyone. People benefit from a variety of different interventions, and what might be an effective tool for some, may not be for others. It's important to find a type of therapy that works for you and it's okay if that might take some time to figure out.


If you are struggling with your mental health, please know that you are not alone and there are people and organisations that can help you. You can visit the below links for help if you need it, or book an appointment with your GP: 


Sources and references


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