The Art Therapy Sourcebook Book

I'm planning on enrolling in an art therapy program in a year or two. I've been engaging in art therapy techniques for years--not in a calculated way, but moreso to stay sane. Art has always done that for me. Life is not as difficult right now, but I've felt unable to express some of the emotions I know I have--somewhere--so I thought I'd pick this up and be proactive.

I expected this book to be chockfull of exercises--more of a workbook. What I got was more of an intro textbook with some exercises to try out--things I used before in an interactive, undergraduate art history class. I wasn't really disappointed--mostly because the text WAS useful for someone like me. It gave me more of an idea of what I'm getting into. Therapeutically, it didn't tell me anything new or provide a plethora of insights. For someone like me, it made me want to explore these things more though.

Mental health in this country is abysmal, so people are looking for books to help them make sense of their lives. Some will find ways to cope--as I did--and others will just keep looking. This book offers a few steps toward healing, but they are hard to find and not too impactful. If you are looking to heal, you probably are better off finding an art therapist to help you. For those lacking the funds, I suggest meeting up with friends and doing creative activities together. The book offers some insights about group therapy. Maybe use these ideas to get started. If you are interested in practicing art therapy, this is something for the bookshelf--but keep looking for more robust options.