The process of healing: Expression from within, insight, and release through the arts

Abstract

The creative arts therapies best fit how the brain actually functions and can provide more effective means for healing than the current talk therapy methods. Mirror neurons which make empathy and imitative learning possible are actively engaged through the intentional actions used in creative arts therapies. The arts therapies use of verbal and non-verbal expression allow trauma to be released from both sides of the brain. Humans are hard-wired to create through the arts and we should be willing to employ that natural ability on behalf of our own health.