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Frequently Asked Questions

Counselling

What is the difference between counselling and psychotherapy?

The two terms are usually used interchangeably. People also often ask about the difference between a counsellor and a psychologist. Counselling usually refers to shorter term treatment, while psychotherapy aims at treating deep issues and tend to require a longer period of treatment. And good news, we offer both services!

How do I go about getting to see a counsellor?

You may drop us a note via WhatsApp or email with a brief description of your reason for seeking therapy. We will get back to you via phone call to do a brief interview to find out more. Thereafter, we will match you with the most suitable counsellor from our team, or even refer you to a specialized counsellor outside our centre.

Art Therapy

What happens during an art therapy session? 

An art therapy session is facilitated so as to allow one to express difficult emotions in a non-threatening manner through the process of art-making and in doing so, externalise the issue(s) causing internal conflicts within oneself. As the art-making process engages our right brain, it allows us to access our unconscious and implicit memories because it bypasses our natural defense mechanisms, often in the form of cognitive reasoning enacted by our logical and linear language left brain, which would otherwise shut down in the face of difficult emotions and thoughts. Art therapy may therefore bring to the surface unresolved issues. Gaining awareness of one’s internal conflicts is the first step towards reconciliation, enlightened self-acceptance, mental wellness and resilience.

Do I need to know how to draw or paint to join? 

The session focuses on the process of art-making, and not the final product. Therefore, no prior art-making experience is required. It is a non-judgemental approach that seeks to empower the participant. We celebrate small successes.

Who can join an art therapy session? 

People of various ages who are open to exploring their own emotions and have the desire to grow and be healed of past trauma and hurt or simply want someone to come alongside to support them in their life journey. Our art therapist has experience working with children, youth, young adults, adults, and the elderly or those who are terminally ill. Some of them are normal folks like you and me who need someone to walk with them as they discover their own identities and strengths as they seek growth. However, some require deeper work owing to dysfunctional family backgrounds, or face roadblocks due to low self-esteem, hurts, pains, anxiety, depression, control or existential issues, etc.

What are some of the materials used?

It can range from pencils, markers, and oil pastels to watercolors, ink, acrylic, clay, as well as yarn, fabric, and collage to name a few. Everyone responds differently to any given art material and different art materials will be used at different junctures to support the client through the therapy journey.

What is the role of an art therapist?

An art therapist who is present and attuned to the client can create a safe therapeutic space for exploratory and spontaneous creative play. She serves to witness, hold and contain the client’s pain. She will journey with the client, according to his or her pace to process certain aspects of the client’s life. Art therapy may enhance the acceptance of the self, and of others, bringing forth a new mindset of letting go, and performing closures while one tries to live a meaningful life. This may lead to insights, which may in turn lead to reconciliation and the restorative identity of the self and client’s relationships.

Is it the same as Art Jamming? 

No. The focus of art jamming or art & crafts is more on the end product whereas an art therapy session led by an art psychotherapist is focused on the process of guiding clients towards forming their own insights. The client takes the lead towards self-discovery through the process of art-making. Art therapy can be conducted at a lighter supportive level or a deeper insight-oriented psychodynamic level depending on the needs of each participant.

Do art therapists interpret art? 

Participants interpret their own artworks most of the time. The art psychotherapist will facilitate. Art therapy is a recognised mental health profession and art therapists have to attain a Master in Art Therapy in order to practice.

If your questions haven't been answered, feel free to contact us to find out more! 

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