WHY  THE   ARTS  THERAPIES  IN  EDUCATION?

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In both mainstream and special education, individuals who present with emotional or behavioral problems, who are withdrawn or under–achieving, may be able to resolve personal and other difficulties through an Arts Therapy input. The Arts Therapies may also provide an arena for play and for the testing of relationships. These experiences can lead to feelings of achievement and increased self-confidence.  The process builds over time and individuals may be able to generalise skills into other parts of their education and life.

An Arts Therapist works with an individual or small group. The therapist’s starting point is the client’s own resources, in all areas of functioning and communication: verbal and non verbal, emotional, spatial, cognitive, creative and spiritual. Programmes are developed for each individual or small group, after careful consultation with other professionals involved, with full knowledge of the individual’s history.

In the Arts Therapies, clients are provided with time and space for their individual needs and concerns. They may be helped towards educational and social experiences appropriate to their age and ability, thereby gaining fuller access to the whole curriculum.

The Arts Therapies can help clients to cope with stresses which may arise from physical or learning difficulties, the effects of mental health problems, family break-up, bereavement, bullying and abuse.  They may explore behavioral problems associated with personality disorders, criminal offending and substance abuse. These issues and many others may be hindering educational progress.

Arts Therapies programmes can also assist in Staff development, by supporting them in the management of stress and in the understanding of the relationships they have with their students.  Experiential Courses in Arts Therapies give greater insight into the use of the Arts, in Educational contexts.