In the wake of traumatic experiences, traditional forms of talk therapy sometimes fall short in providing an avenue for expression and healing. Some may find it challenging to verbalise their experiences or find it overwhelming to confront them directly. Fortunately, art therapy offers a unique medium through which youths and adults in Singapore can explore their mental health and process their trauma, emotions, thoughts and memories in a safe and supportive environment. Solace Art Psychotherapy has embraced this powerful therapeutic tool, addressing the needs of individuals grappling with the aftermath of complex trauma and psychological stress.
So, what exactly is art psychotherapy? We chat to BUVENASVARI PRAGASAM (MA, AThS), founder, managing director, clinical supervisor and trauma-informed principal art psychotherapist, about her personal and professional art psychotherapy journey.
How does art psychotherapy work?
Art psychotherapy (or art therapy for short) is a specialised, evidence-based mental health service in Singapore that uses visual arts media as a tool in sessions to help enhance and strengthen one’s mental health and wellbeing. It is a form of psychotherapy and an established alternative to traditional talk therapy.
In a counselling session, treatment revolves around having conversations with a counsellor, whereas in our practice, we encourage communication through the medium of visual art. Both are useful for the management of mental health issues, such as depression, but non-verbal treatment may be optimal for issues such as complex trauma and post-traumatic stress disorder. Art therapy can also be effective in situations where previous treatments, such as medication or counselling, have proven unsuccessful.
How does complex trauma manifest?
Complex trauma is any experience that overwhelms one’s ability to cope. It often results from exposure to various forms of adversity such as abuse, neglect or violence. Even a once-off humiliation in the workplace can create this response. Complex trauma can deeply impact one’s emotional and psychological wellbeing and its effects can manifest in a myriad of ways, including but not limited to anxiety, depression, PTSD and difficulties in interpersonal relationships.
What led you to art therapy in Singapore?
I was sexually abused by a relative as a child and had no memories of it until I was 19. Art and music psychotherapy helped me unravel this past experience and aided me in my recovery.
During my interactions with mental health professionals I noticed a general lack of experience and knowledge about trauma and art psychotherapy. I was inspired to follow a path of advocacy in these fields and founded Solace Art Psychotherapy in 2017. The practice has helped close to 200 individuals improve their overall wellbeing and quality of life over the past seven years.
Do you need to have artistic skill?
Nope. Whether painting, drawing, sculpting or other creative mediums, artistic skills are not required to benefit from art therapy. The focus is on using the art materials to express oneself, and the final artwork is secondary.
Can you share a few client success stories?
There are so many wonderful case studies in Singapore showing the positive impact of art therapy for those who attend sessions regularly – here are just a few.
Discontinuing medication post-therapy: This significant milestone was reached by a client who had been on medication for depression for 10 years. After processing her trauma, her depression eased and she was able to maintain her mental health without medication.
Transitioning back into the workforce: Unemployed for two years, this client struggled to attend interviews or last more than a few days in a job. Following art therapy for trauma in Singapore, she has been able to secure and stay in a job she enjoys.
Rising above destructive coping mechanisms: A client that used to resort to harmful patterns, such as breaking things, was able to confront and address this behaviour after therapy for trauma.
Overcoming severe anxiety: Even an online presentation was debilitating for this client. However, after six sessions, her confidence grew and she was able to present without the familiar cycle of fear and uncertainty.
Improving self-esteem: A client with severe negative self-talk was able to stand up for herself when she was being ridiculed by peers, rather than joining them in speaking poorly about herself.
5 more ways art therapy can help heal trauma
#1 Find your safe space: It empowers you to explore difficult experiences and emotions at your own pace.
#2 Navigate complex emotions: Gain insight into your inner workings and uncover underlying patterns and themes.
#3 Externalise inner experiences: By putting emotions and memories into tangible form, you create distance. This facilitates deeper understanding and healing.
#4 Address unresolved issues: Trauma and other challenges can impact your daily life. Art therapy helps you process these experiences, opening the door to personal and professional growth.
#5 Enhance your overall wellbeing: Art therapy paves the way to a happier and more fulfilling life, helping you overcome obstacles and create healthier relationships.
Alongside art therapy sessions in Singapore, Solace has published an art therapy-based resource book for those keen to increase their self-awareness. Increase Self-Awareness, A 30-Day Practice is authored by Buvenasvari and available to order from solace.com.sg; it’s suitable for ages 12 and up and is frequently used as a guide by psychologists and schools.
#02-53 Kitchener Complex, 809 French Road
9459 2044 | solace.com.sg | @solace_art_therapy
This article first appeared in the May 2024 edition of Expat Living. You can purchase the latest issue or subscribe so you never miss a copy!
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