Art Therapy for Depression

The Journey from Darkness to Light

Art therapy for depression has great healing power. We are creative beings, and our need to express and share both our pain and our healing is an essential part of our humanity. Artistic "talent" or experience is not necessary (and can even be an obstacle) for art therapy. Whether free -form journaling, making music, or creating a work of art -- it is the Process, not the end product that matters. It is "art" if you call it "art." Nobody else has any authority to criticize or evaluate your creative process, or the end result - unless you invite them to do so. The mind's judgment and analysis have no place in the spontaneous expression of the heart and soul.

"The Man in the Box"
Ben Schwarcz, acrylic on canvas.

I painted this during a very lonely depressing summer when I was 15 years old. I think it really conveyed my feelings of despair, hopelessness and teenage angst. I spent a couple of weeks in my basement working on this painting, absorbed in the details of the image, and when I was done, my depression was gone. It was very liberating to allow myself to get completely into the process and feeling, and expression of this image. This was my first "art therapy" experience, and a valuable lesson in self-acceptance.

Visions of Transformation - Embracing Darkness and Light

I welcome any submissions of art images that you would care to post on this page. My hope is that eventually this page will be filled with an evocative collection of artwork that may provide solace, hope and inspiration for others to find healing through their artistic expression.

Learn more about depression and what you can do about it.

For more information about the field of art therapy visit the site of the American Art Therapy Association, Inc.

If you are interested in consultation,

psychotherapy, meditation instruction , or art therapy for depression:

Contact Ben Schwarcz, MFT
707/326-5566

E-mail Ben Schwarcz