Art therapy is a type of psychotherapy in which art materials are used alongside talking to explore thoughts, feelings and difficult experiences. It allows people to make art through reflection and self-expression, supported by a trained art therapist.
Within a compassionate environment, art therapy can be used to help navigate the complex issues that can arise following the diagnosis of a life-limiting illness.
It can allow people a space in which they can explore the difficulties they’re facing, by providing a safe place to talk, and to freely express their thoughts and emotions with art.
You can choose to use the time in the way that is most needed for you. For example, you may prefer to paint quietly and focus on the materials, or you may feel it’s more helpful to talk and share while artmaking.
Sessions usually last one hour and can be arranged weekly or flexibly. The sessions are held in the art therapy room in the Sunflower Centre at East Cheshire Hospice.
Whether you’re a patient or a carer, support is available. Art therapy can be suitable for a wide range of needs. You may find art therapy beneficial:
Art Therapy is available at East Cheshire Hospice for inpatients and people in our community affected by a life-limiting illness.
Referrals can be made through your GP or healthcare professional, or by contacting the Hospice directly.
If you think art therapy might be helpful for you, or if you wish to get in touch to find out more, you can contact Rhiannon on 01625 666 996. Alternatively, you can contact the Sunflower Centre 01625 665 685.
“Art therapy has been very beneficial to me as it is easier to talk through the pictures and reflect on the depth of my mood. It is good to talk but more can be said when talking through the pictures.”
“I could talk but I’m not very articulate so the painting said what I couldn’t.”
“A combination of talking, painting and reflecting on the painting one to one has given me more hope somehow and makes me less frightened of the unexpected.”
“I find the sessions therapeutic at the time and this extends to outside of the sessions during the week. I also find the physical process helpful releasing tension and expressing and letting go of strong emotions”
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