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The Spiritual Dimension in Art Therapy: Exploring Our Beliefs, Sense of Purpose and Meaning

by Lauren Fallat, LPC LPAT ATR-BC


For some people, spirituality is a cornerstone of their lives. It provides guidance, structure, and meaning. It can serve as a central part of peoples’ lives and play a key role in how they see the world. For others, spirituality may be more elusive, something that they are interested in but haven’t quite figured out yet. And for still others, spirituality may be something that they actively reject. Regardless of where you fall on the spectrum, using art therapy to explore your spirituality can be a valuable experience.


Art has been a form of expression for as long as humans have been able to communicate. There is a wide belief that art has an intrinsic power to heal through non-verbal channels of self expression and to provide a space of self-awareness and deep reflection through the externalization of inner thoughts, feelings and desires. It allows us to share our deepest thoughts and feelings without having to say a word. For many people, art is a way to explore their spirituality and connect with their innermost selves.


As quoted from Beyza Kirka’s article “Spiritual Dimension in Art Therapy” (2019), “The healing power of art is hidden in its abilities to eliminate the limits of introspection through verbal access and oral defenses, to communicate directly with emotions beyond the state of consciousness, and to address the human being as a whole.” By exploring the spiritual dimension that exists in the art therapeutic practice, we are able to better understand the transformative power of the artmaking process and the meaning that is created through self-explorative mechanisms.


Art therapy can be a great way to explore one's spirituality through creative expression. It can provide a safe space for people to deal with difficult emotions and experiences, and to connect with their inner selves in a deeper way. When you create art, you are often tapping into your subconscious, which can allow you to access thoughts and feelings that you may not be aware of otherwise. This can be a great way to learn more about yourself and connect with your spirituality on a deeper level.


There’s something about the creative process that helps us to access parts of ourselves that might be difficult to reach in any other way. For many people, exploring their spirituality is a deeply personal experience, and art therapy can be a powerful tool for unlocking that potential. If you're interested in learning more about your own spiritual beliefs, or if you're simply looking for some inspiration, here are a few questions to get you started:


1. What makes you feel most connected to the divine?

2. What are your favorite spiritual practices?

3. What do you believe happens after death?

4. What is your favorite spiritual quote or mantra?

5. What does it mean to be spiritual?

6. Is there a specific way to explore our spirituality?

7. What do you see in your dreams? Dreams can be a powerful gateway into our subconscious minds, and they can offer insight into our spiritual lives.


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To learn more about Holistic Health Counseling Center, please visit out website at www.hhccnj.com To read our latest blog, see this page: https://holistichealthcounselingcenter.com/blog/


References Cited:

Kirca, Beyza. (2019). Spiritual Psychology and Counseling 4(3)

DOI:10.12738/spc.2019.4.3.071






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