What is art therapy?
Art therapy is a clinically grounded therapeutic modality that integrates established psychological theories with creative processes. It provides a structured, evidence-informed approach for individuals to explore, process, and make meaning of their thoughts, emotions, and lived experiences beyond verbal expression.
Art therapists commonly work within private practice, healthcare settings, schools, community organisations, rehabilitation centres, and residential care facilities.
How does art therapy work?
Art therapy is a versatile modality that can be applied across a wide range of settings and populations. Services are tailored to meet the needs of individuals, groups, and organisations.
Interventions are offered on an individual or group basis and are adapted to suit different ages, cognitive abilities, and therapeutic goals. These can take place online or in-person.
Through guided creative processes and reflection, clients develop insight, emotional regulation, and self-awareness within a structured therapeutic space.
Who can benefit from art therapy?
People with mental health concerns
Art therapy helps people express difficult emotions without relying on words, using creative activities like drawing or painting. It can reduce stress, improve self-awareness, and support emotional regulation, while also helping individuals process experiences and build healthier coping skills over time.
People who are neurodiverse
Art therapy can be especially helpful for neurodiverse individuals by offering a flexible, nonverbal way to communicate and process experiences. Creative activities support sensory regulation, reduce stress, and allow for self-expression in ways that don’t rely on traditional communication. It can also build confidence, support emotional understanding, and create a safe space that adapts to different thinking and learning styles.
People living with Dementia
Art therapy can benefit people living with dementia by providing a gentle, nonverbal way to express emotions and connect with others. Creative activities can reduce anxiety, support mood, and stimulate memory and cognitive function. It also offers a sense of purpose and enjoyment, helping individuals maintain identity and emotional well-being even as memory changes.
People who have experienced a brain injury
Art therapy can support people with brain injuries by offering a nonverbal way to express thoughts and emotions when communication is difficult. Creative activities can aid cognitive recovery, improve focus and coordination, and reduce frustration or anxiety. It also helps rebuild confidence and provides a meaningful way to engage in the healing process.
About the therapist
Saxon Kinnear | Registered Art Therapist
Saxon is an HPCSA registered art therapist who studied at the University of Johannesburg (South Africa). In addition to obtaining her masters degree in art therapy, she has an honours degree in psychology and a post graduate certificate in education.
The benefits of art therapy
Psychological
Art therapy supports cognitive and mental processes by helping people explore thoughts, patterns, and beliefs in a nonverbal way.
It can improve self-awareness, enhance problem-solving skills, and encourage flexible thinking.
By engaging the imagination and reflection, it can help individuals to understand their inner experiences and develop healthier coping strategies.
Emotional
Emotionally, art therapy provides a safe outlet to express feelings that may be difficult to put into words.
It can also reduce stress, anxiety, and emotional tension while promoting a sense of calm and relief.
Creating art can help people to process difficult emotions, build resilience, and improve overall mood and self-esteem.
Physical
Although primarily focused on mental health, art therapy can also have positive physical effects.
The act of creating art, such as drawing, painting, or sculpting, can improve fine motor skills and hand-eye coordination.
Additionally, the relaxation response triggered during creative activities can lower heart rate, reduce muscle tension, and support overall physical well-being.
Corporate Wellness
Art therapy workshops are designed to support staff wellbeing, enhance team cohesion, and build emotional awareness, offering organisations a practical and impactful approach to fostering a healthier, more resilient workforce.
Corporate workshops are structured, short-term interventions designed to meet specific workplace objectives through guided, experiential processes.
“When words are simply not enough, we turn to other forms of expression. Working with an art therapist gives you the opportunity to reflect on those expressions, and make meaning with them.”
Commonly asked questions...
I'm not 'good' at art. Can I still do art therapy?
Of course you can - and most art therapists would ask you to rethink this statement! Art therapy is not about making 'perfect' art. Art therapy is less about product and more about process.
What does an art therapy session entail?
In an art therapy session, you will be gently encouraged to explore artmaking materials and processes, thereafter reflecting on both. Saxon may guide your artmaking process, offer support, or simply observe and invite your reflections. Art therapy sessions do not always involve artmaking.
How do I book a session, and what will it cost?
To book a session with Saxon, you can email or phone her using the contact details below. Together you will arrange an appointment date and time. On appointment booking, rates will be discussed. Art therapy sessions are covered by selected medical aids.
Contact
Address
Vredehoek
Cape Town, WP 8001
Contact
072 245 9371
Opening Hours
Mon - Fri
8:00 am – 5:00 pm
