CREATE & CONQUER
What Is Art Therapy
What is Art Therapy
Art therapy focuses on building a relationship between emotional, cognitive, physical and behavioral elements within the authentic self. To achieve overall well-being, psychological resilience and the ability to thrive through life’s experiences. In art therapy, clients do not need to have prior knowledge of, or experience with, creating art. They are encouraged to explore their innate creativity throughout the therapeutic process.
Art therapy is a form of therapy that uses the creative process, such as painting, drawing, clay, and collage, to help you explore your thoughts and feelings. Instead of relying only on words, you express yourself through making art, then reflect on what came up with the support of a therapist. You don’t need any art skills or experience. The process matters far more than what you end up with, and there’s no right or wrong way to do it.
What is Expressive Arts Therapy
Expressive Arts Therapy (EXAT) is a therapeutic approach that works within the realm of imagination. By engaging with the arts and play, we are taken into the world of imagination where possibilities and paths of permission, not always easy for us to access, are available to us, where new ideas can emerge and be seen. Resources and possible solutions we did not previously see or know possible can surface.
In expressive arts therapy, we work with poetry, storytelling, psychodrama, play, movement, painting, drawing, sound, voice, photography, collage, clay and flexible media as they become appropriate or relevant to the individual in session.
Within expressive arts therapy, we focus on process rather than product; there is no right way or wrong way to do it. Instead, we simply extend the invitation to show up, as you are, in the place you find yourself and be welcomed into the experience of being human.
Expressive arts therapy draws on many creative forms, including visual art, movement, writing, sound, and play, and moves between them as feels right for you. At Create and Conquer, sessions can include a wide range of materials, from paint and clay to beads, faux fur, pipe cleaners, and natural and found objects. This variety means you can find the way of expressing yourself that suits you, your body, and your pace.
Who is it good for?
Art and expressive arts therapy are for anyone, including teens, adults, and seniors. It can be especially helpful for people who find it hard to put feelings into words, who feel talk therapy hasn’t been enough, or who simply enjoy creating. It’s also a good fit for neurodivergent folks, people with disabilities, 2SLGBTQIA+ people, and anyone affected by weight stigma or body image struggles.
What can art therapy help with?
Creative therapy can support people through many challenges, including stress and anxiety, low mood, grief and loss, life transitions, self-esteem, body image, and the effects of diet culture and weight stigma. It can also help you build self-awareness, process difficult experiences, and rediscover joy and play. Every person’s reasons for coming are different, and we’ll work at a pace that feels right for you.
Check us out on Instagram
Email: chantal.createandconquer@gmail.com
Create and Conquer is located in Winnipeg, on Treaty 1 territory. The traditional territory of the Anishinaabeg, Cree, Oji-Cree, Dakota, and Dene Peoples, and the homeland of the Red River Métis.
Acknowledging this is only a small part of building real, respectful relationships with Indigenous communities, building relationships rooted in honesty about the past and genuine commitment to the work of reconciliation. I hold this awareness as I show up in this work, recognizing the unearned privilege I carry as a settler on this land.
Phone: 204-297-7273
Chantal Parenty
BA, DWHEAT, RP (Qualifying)
CRPO #: 22950
CATA Member #: 69639627
