Frequently Asked Questions
1. What is the difference between expressive art therapy and traditional art therapy?
The main difference is that Expressive Arts (EXA) uses all the disciplines of art: visual, movement, music, drama and writing/poetry, instead of focusing on just one. Expressive art therapists may offer a client numerous art options. Traditional art therapy refers to a single art discipline such as drama therapy, music therapy, and so forth.
​
2. What happens at each session?
Most sessions last an hour and a half. Each session starts with assessing the state of the client and their goals. This is followed by directed art making. We emphasize the art making process and not the product. Then we discuss said process, the images that have emerged, and what they tell us about real life experiences and challenges.
​
3. I'm a terrible artist. I don't know how to draw, paint or play music. Is expressive arts a good fit for me?
Expressive arts therapy is process-focused. We do not evaluate the quality of the art, rather we are using the art to understand our internal emotional processes. No art experience is necessary.
​
4. How do you analyze my art?
The therapist uses observations about your work to ask guiding questions. Together, the therapist and client unfold the meaning of the art making process for each individual. Since every person is unique, they come with individualized artistic interpretations. The therapist helps the client decide the meaning to their art.
​
5. How do you decide what art modality we will be using in the session?
The art modalities geared to each session vary upon the client's preferences. Our training teaches us to tailor art projects to specific client goals and needs.
​
6. Galit, is art making a part of your daily life?
I use art in my personal life on a regular basis. For the last several years, I've been dancing jazz and hip-hop. I also play the drum and the clarinet, and am a member of the playback theater troupe, Mistrels of Story.
