ART THERAPY

Art therapy is an integrative mental health approach and profession that can enrich the experiences of individuals, families and communities through active art-making and creative processes. The relationship between a client and art therapist plays a pivotal role in the therapeutic process.1

Meet Erika Mayer

Erika's Tips

With the guidance of an art therapist, art therapy may help individuals process emotions and life experiences, such as managing anger and sadness, expressing gratitude, and developing self-awareness. Art therapy is facilitated by a licensed and board certified art therapist; however here are some art activities that may help decrease stress and promote relaxation:

  • Some ideas for indoor art exercises include:
    • Sketch one of your favorite places
    • Put on some of your favorite music and draw
    • Pick out a geometric pattern, such as a Mandala, to color or paint
    • Consider using magazines, photos, poems, and other mediums to create a collage
    • Write in a journal
  • You might also consider going into the outdoors:
    • Go on a hike and use photography, poetry, drawing or painting to express yourself
    • Focus on one of your favorite parts of nature (e.g., flowers, animals, landscapes) and capture it via the art form of your choosing
    • Find a beach and draw in the sand

If you’d like to do your art exercise with friends, consider each making a different piece of art and sharing with one another what it means to you.

Finally, if you would like to share your original artwork for display in the ALSO US digital showcase, visit the submission page.

FAQ
Q: What’s your connection to ALS?

A: I lost my cousin to ALS in 2011 and witnessed the impact the disease and loss had on my family.

Q: WHAT LED YOU TO BECOME AN ART THERAPIST?

A: I have been an artist for my entire life and always have been interested in psychology. I love that art therapy bridges both of those worlds together to help others.

Q: WHAT IS YOUR FAVORITE PART OF BEING AN ART THERAPIST?

A: I love helping others gain self-awareness through art making.

Q: HOW HAS ART HELPED YOU EXPRESS YOURSELF?

A: I have been able to express myself through art since I was a small child. It was always there for me, even at times when I did not have the words to express how I was feeling.

Q: WHAT IS THE BEST ADVICE YOU HAVE EVER RECEIVED?

A: Perfection is an abstract concept.

Q: ANY OTHER FUN FACTS YOU WANT TO SHARE?

A: I love animals, hiking and yoga!

Mitsubishi Tanabe Pharma America, Inc. is not a provider of medical advice, treatment or diagnosis. Before you take any action that may affect your health or safety, please consult with a healthcare professional.

1 About Art Therapy. (n.d.). Retrieved May 1, 2019, from https://arttherapy.org/about-art-therapy/