Reclaiming Expression: How Art Helps Us Heal
Written By Neena Massey
In today’s fast-paced digital world, it’s easy to lose touch with our authentic voice and forget about the creative outlets that we enjoyed in childhood. But what if the simple things in life that bring us joy are the paths to our deepest emotional healing? Welcome to expressive arts therapy!
Expressive arts therapy is a combination of powerful art modalities that help us reconnect with our true selves. Art helps us understand what drives our subconscious thoughts, emotions, and experiences in helpful and unusual ways. In addition to talk therapy, expressive arts (i.e. writing, visual art, movement, music) provide creative pathways for healing and self-discovery.
Storytelling is a component of expressive art therapy. Everyone has a story. Some are joyful, some painful, many bewildering. In expressive arts therapy, we begin to explore our stories at our own pace, through various modalities. It’s a trauma-informed approach that supports gentle nervous system regulation, and opens new pathways for self-discovery.
Reclaiming expression goes a step further by rediscovering identity, voice, and creative potential that seem lost or inaccessible. According to Cambridge Dictionary, reclaiming means “to take back what’s yours.” Reclaiming expression can feel like a loud, assertive statement after a long time of feeling shut down or unheard. It can also feel like a gentle awareness that something fundamental is missing and needs to be addressed.
As an expressive arts therapist, I’ve seen and experienced the power of creative expression. When navigating stress, trauma, illness, pain, or major life transitions, incorporating art into daily life can soften the impacts. Expressive arts therapy is a creative journey to help us understand ourselves, transform, and heal. It uses creativity to connect our inner and outer worlds. Expressive art is always done in a safe, supportive environment.
I am a counseling intern at Movement Counseling & Wellness. My background is composed of art, education, and community healing. I’m passionate about creating spaces where people can be who they are. I’m also passionate about helping people express themselves freely, experience connection, and feel a real sense of community. In both individual and group work, I strive to create a collaborative space where creativity and growth can unfold.
Some goals of expressive arts therapy include:
Increasing self-awareness
Increasing emotional insight
Supporting nervous system regulation
Deepening self-compassion
Encouraging authentic expression
Creating a sense of safety in the body
Fostering connection with ourselves and others
Reclaiming inner resources
Anyone is welcome to join - no art experience necessary. If you’re curious about expressive arts therapy or interested in learning more about upcoming workshops or individual sessions, I invite you to reach out.