Autism is a neurodevelopmental disorder that may limit an individual’s ability to communicate, process emotions, and regulate sensory stimuli. Autism is often characterized by repetitive behaviors, and those diagnosed with autism may feel overwhelmed by the atmosphere or social situations. While there is no cure for this disorder, multiple therapies can help make autism manageable by individuals and steer them toward independence and self-sufficiency.
Art therapy is often sought by those with autism. Through art therapy, individuals communicate and express their feelings, collaborate socially, and learn to regulate their emotions and behavior. Let’s take a closer look at art therapy for autism and how it may be effective and beneficial for them.
What is Art Therapy?
Art therapy is a creative therapeutic approach involving a series of activities such as painting, coloring, drawing, clay sculpting, and so on. These activities serve as a creative outlet for expressing raw emotions, regulating thoughts and feelings, and participating in group settings.
Although not an evidence-based treatment for autism, art therapy may be helpful for people who struggle with traditional forms of expression such as verbal communication as this approach allows for non-verbal expression. Art therapy is not intimidating or overwhelming because there are no wrong answers or one way of creating art - people have freedom to do whatever feels right to them, potentially making art therapy non-threatening and empowering for autistic individuals.
However, it is important to note that art therapists have to tailor activities to suit the needs, skill level, and abilities of each person so this experience is positive and helpful for them.
Benefits of Art Therapy
Art therapy is a safe way to expressing thoughts and feelings and to communicate with others.
Improve Communication Skills
Many autistic individuals struggle with verbal communication or associating words with what they are feeling or thinking. Sometimes they may act out or tantrum when they can’t express their needs or preferences.
With art, there are no wrong answers, which could be a liberating experience for people on the autism spectrum. They can express their feelings or thoughts through a painting, drawing, or clay model without worrying about doing anything the right way.
Develop Creativity
Creative skills may begin to develop when art therapy is implemented as it involves thinking in terms of images and using pictures or symbols to express needs and feelings. People can get creative when they visualize their feelings or desires and then express them through pictures, signs, symbols, and artistic ways such as painting or drawing.
Improved Social Interactions
Participating in group art therapy sessions is a chance for autistic people to engage with others in a supportive and inclusive environment. They can learn essential skills such as taking turns, being patient, and trying to understand someone else’s point of view.
Group art therapy sessions also may promote friendships and bonding as people work together to create something tangible that is proof of their collaboration and harmony. In the process, autistic people can learn to give and take feedback, improve their artistic abilities, and feel recognized for their talent.
Regulating Sensory Activities
People with autism spectrum disorder may face challenges with regulating sensory experiences. Different textures and colors can overwhelm them or make them feel uncomfortable.
Art therapists carefully design activities to help autistic people navigate different types of sensory experiences and be comfortable in the process. This can include activities such as making clay sculptures, making a collage with grains of rice or beads, having music in the background, etc. These types of sessions stimulate multiple senses while autistic persons create something unique and beautiful.
Enhance Fine Motor Skills
Another common challenge for autistic individuals may be hand-eye coordination and the use of fine motor skills. So everyday activities such as buttoning a shirt, writing with a pencil, or tying shoe laces can be very challenging for them. They often undergo motor skills training and other therapies to be more successful with fine motor skills.
Art therapy can help with motor skills by including the use of tools such as a paintbrush or colored pencil without the pressure of having only one way of using those tools. For example, a paintbrush can be thick or thin, and people can color inside a box or make strokes on a blank canvas - all of these will be valid and acceptable uses of tools and allow for expression nevertheless. However, with prolonged use of these tools, people may learn to improve fine motor skills in the process even if that is not the objective of the therapy session.
Conclusion
Art therapy is often a creative and enjoyable approach. It can teach vital skills such as patience, perseverance, and social skills, and nurture artistic talent as well. People on the autism spectrum may struggle to communicate verbally and/or be intimidated and frustrated by limitations, especially in social situations. However, with art therapy, they may learn to express themselves in a non-verbal, non-threatening, and creative way while feeling liberated and safe. This further positively impacts their confidence and ability to lead better-quality and more independent lives.
Disclaimer: This article does not contain behavior analytic content.
