It is also useful to those suffering from alcoholism, drug addiction, anorexia and bulimia. The basis of art therapy is that people draw pictures, paint or make models. Patients who are worried about their artistic ability are reassured from the beginning their work is more of a way of expression than a work of art. The act of producing the art is very therapeutic for the patient, and the work can be analysed by the therapist to discover any underlying problems. The artwork allows for expression without words, which is why it is particularly helpful for those with communication problems.
Therapists are professionally qualified, sensitive and good listeners.
As conflicts, fears and needs emerge in the patients work the therapist helps them to work through their feelings and resolve their problems.