Art therapy is one of the most effective therapeutic techniques because it helps improve self-discovery and self-esteem. Regarding mental health treatment and behavior management, art therapy improves confidence, manages emotions, and reduces anxiety. For people with intellectual and developmental disabilities, the intervention provides creative and healthy ways to regulate behavior while increasing independence.
With traditional therapies, there may be some limitations with the IDD population regarding comfort and self-expression; however, art therapy has many sensory and stimulatory advantages. Specifically, a person dealing with restricted physical movement gains the opportunity to manipulate materials without adaptive equipment. Moreover, a person with limited communication ability gains the capacity to represent themselves positively and visually without having to say one word. Art therapy provides an environment without audio or visual distractions for deaf people.
In a society where insensitivity and labeling are rampant, art therapy helps people exceed expectations and discourages discrimination. The value of empowerment promotes personal growth, talent, and ambition, components necessary for successful integration. Art therapy creates a support system where the person can interact with various teachers, mentors, and artists to develop their craft. Most of all, the person enjoys positive feedback and fosters strong relationships with the art community. A healthy creative mind is a stable mind.
