Many people struggle to find words for what they feel, especially children, people who have been through difficult experiences, and those with developmental challenges. This is where art therapy comes in: a field that uses drawing, sculpting and art materials as a means of expression and psychological support, alongside established counselling and therapeutic approaches. This article introduces the field, who practices it and how to qualify.
What is art therapy?
Art therapy is a practice in which a qualified professional uses the artistic process, not the finished artwork, to help a person express feelings and thoughts, understand their experiences and develop skills. The goal is not a beautiful picture; it is for materials, drawing and forming to become a language for what is hard to say.
Where is it used?
- With children: expressing emotions, building skills and supporting those with developmental or behavioral difficulties.
- In rehabilitation centers: alongside other programs for people with disabilities and developmental conditions.
- In psychological support: within counselling and treatment plans led by qualified professionals.
- In education and community settings: in wellbeing and inclusion programs.
- In group sessions: to build communication and trust among group members.
Who practices art therapy?
Psychologists and therapists, rehabilitation staff working with priority groups, and educators and leaders of inclusive schools all benefit from art therapy training. It adds a practical new tool to their existing practice.
Important: training in art therapy does not replace professional classification by the Saudi Commission for Health Specialties for those who wish to practice clinically. It adds a skill to the practitioner; it does not confer an independent professional title.
What does a diploma cover?
A comprehensive qualification combines psychological foundations, artistic knowledge and supervised fieldwork. Key areas include:
- The philosophy, history and ethics of art therapy.
- The psychology of visual arts and expressive media.
- Foundations of psychopathology and counselling.
- Neuroscience and artistic response.
- Clinical art therapy and group therapy dynamics.
- Origami and kinetic forming therapy, drama therapy and supporting expressive media.
- A field practicum and graduation project.
How to choose a good program
- Clear accreditation: a certificate from a recognized academic institution.
- Sufficient hours: serious training takes hundreds of hours, not a short workshop.
- Real supervised fieldwork: practice under supervision is indispensable.
- Balance of theory and practice: understanding the psychology as much as mastering the materials.
Bottom line
Art therapy is an effective tool for expression, psychological support and emotional balance, adding a new dimension to the work of psychologists, therapists and educators. Coral Solutions’ Art Therapy Diploma, delivered with Practika Academy, is a comprehensive 300-hour qualification accredited by the German Jordanian University, with ten courses, supervised fieldwork and a graduation project.