Harnessing Mindful Creativity: A Fresh Approach to Therapy
A lot of them really struggled and they would give up or they would get frustrated, or even if it's just sort of a brief meditation, the clients would say: well, I can't do it, and so we would talk about what is mindfulness and exactly just what you said- it's one of the definitions- is only doing one thing at a time and staying in the present moment, and when people are doing these art projects, they are naturally doing those things right.
Imagine a therapy session where art and mindfulness blend seamlessly to calm the mind and foster healing. That's exactly what licensed clinical social worker Katie Mcrae discusses in this episode of 'One Hour AT A Time'. She dives into how integrating mindfulness practices like centering and guided meditations with creative activities can transform therapy, especially for those battling substance use and mental health issues.
By focusing on a single task, clients find it easier to stay present and engaged, turning potentially overwhelming therapy sessions into manageable and even enjoyable experiences. Mcrae emphasizes the power of keeping things simple and setting short-term goals, which help clients develop new, healthier habits. By the end of each session, clients walk away with a tangible piece of art—a physical reminder of their progress and efforts.
This episode is a treasure trove of practical advice for anyone looking to enhance their mental wellness through creative means.