I reached out to Art Therapist Dr. Diana Basquez-Simpson to ask her thoughts on whether it is possible to self-direct out own art therapy journey as that is one question I wanted to unpick in my research as my project has developed. Her is our conversation:
Kimberley: Hi Diana, I hope you don't mind me contacting you again! I just wanted to ask a question and for your opinion on it. Do you think it's possible for someone, specifically an artist, to undertake a healing journey without having an art therapist present, but perhaps while having talk therapy? For example, I have verbal therapy and talk about some of my traumas (which is really difficult to do at times and I sometimes keep myself closed off about things) and then in my own time and my own studio unpick some of the things I've lived through and kept secret by using art materials to explore that. In a way I become my own art therapist but without the qualification, while retaining what a therapist has said to me and while making connections. Is this valid? Is it phony? Does it undermine what a trained art therapist does? Thank you for your feedback! It's just something that came to me while I'm completing my dissertation and while my painting practice changed this past year. I really appreciate everything you shared with me and how you helped shape my writing. It's almost done and I can't wait to submit it!
Diana: Hey Kimberley! So glad you reached out. Please feel free to do so any time at all.
I think what you’re describing is completely valid. For artists, I believe the art itself and the process of creating are a language. This can be true for anyone. It can be very difficult to put feelings and traumatic experiences into words. Art is a great way to express inner material and it can even help us find answers we didn’t know we were seeking. It sounds like you use art to process material arising in your talk therapy sessions. I think that’s perfect. To me, this sort of process transcends definition. If it helps someone I’m all for it!
The only time I get ‘salty’ about it is when people call themselves Art Therapists or proclaim they offer art therapy for profit when they lack the proper training. You’re using this process to help make sense of and process material for personal benefit, which I think is absolutely fine.
In addition to that, you’ve done your homework and have educated yourself about Art Therapy. It says much about your respect for the profession you asked the question. Others may feel differently about the subject…this is just my 2 cents!
Congratulations on the nearing completion of your dissertation!! That’s really exciting Kimberley
Kimberley: Thank you so very much for everything! This has been so very helpful!
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