Trusting the Process in Art Therapy

“Art therapy has so many layers that people may not recognize,” explains Jenna Pattison, LAC, ATR-P, an art therapist who works with child, adolescent, adult, and women’s groups at Princeton House Behavioral Health’s North Brunswick outpatient site. “Art therapists are trained to look for what’s under the surface, ask questions that help patients explore meaning, and create a safe space that can often lead to ‘ah-ha’ moments.”

In many ways, art can make the unconscious conscious, according to Pattison. The little things tell a story, including how someone begins their artwork, the chosen medium, line quality, placement on the paper, what concepts are included, and what’s left out. In building the therapeutic relationship, Pattison knows when patients are ready to hear what she observes and when to let the interpretation process evolve more organically.

Leaving Judgment at the Door

It’s natural to worry about what others think when creating art in a group setting. But when patients are hesitant to explore art or they express doubt in their abilities, Pattison reminds them that art therapy is a personal, subjective experience and the true benefits are in the process, not the result. She also notes that stick figures are always welcome.

“Allowing yourself to be present in a vulnerable space and open to new ways of expressing yourself can be beneficial in itself,” she says. “Even when patients don’t verbalize their feelings, they’re still processing the experience. Art takes away the pressure to find words to get a message across. Plus, listening to others share their perspectives in the group setting is extremely valuable.” 

Princeton House offers art therapy for inpatients and at all outpatient sites. When patients complete treatment, they have the opportunity to take home their body of artwork. 

“Some patients have difficulty recognizing the progress they’ve made during treatment,” says Pattison. “But when they view their art portfolio from start to finish, it can depict a true physical representation of their healing process. It’s wonderful to see patients connect the dots and learn more about themselves through this experience.”