Eating disorders are neurological disorders that are loosely characterized by abnormal, irregular eating habits, and an extreme concern with one’s body weight or shape. There are several different types of eating disorders listed in the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, Fifth Edition (DSM-5), and each is categorized under the Disorder Class: Feeding and Eating Disorders. Although eating disorders are life-long conditions, with proper treatment and support, an individual can learn to effectively manage its symptoms. The goal of treatment for an individual diagnosed with an eating disorder is to help them find a healthy and sustainable relationship with food. Creative expression can be an effective way to foster mental health and well-being. Hence, art therapy plays a valuable role in the recovery process for individuals dealing with eating disorders.
The American Art Therapy Association defines art therapy as “an integrative mental health and human services profession that enriches the lives of individuals, families, and communities through active art-making, creative process, applied psychological theory, and human experience within a psychotherapeutic relationship.” It is a form of experiential therapy that is facilitated by art therapists who are trained mental health clinicians that are educated in human development, clinical practice, psychological theories, and fine art. Art therapy offers a unique and effective approach to addressing the emotional and psychological aspects of eating disorders:
- Art therapy provides an arena for individuals to explore self-expression, emotions, and eating disorder related challenges that may otherwise be abandoned through various art media (e.g., painting, drawing, sculpting, etc.) rather than solely relying on verbal articulation.
- Eating disorders are often driven by emotional triggers, and studies show that art therapy can help people learn how to identify, access, and effectively manage their emotions.
- Art therapy is a highly adaptable framework that affords clinicians with the flexibility to provide each individual with a personalized therapeutic experience that is directly reflective of their nuanced needs and eating disorder treatment goals.
- People with eating disorders often have distorted body image perceptions. Art therapy allows them to externalize and visually represent their perceptions of their bodies. Creating art can help them gain insight into their body image concerns and challenge distorted beliefs that contribute to their disordered eating habits.
- Through art therapy, individuals can explore and develop a more positive relationship with their bodies. This process can lead to greater body acceptance and self-compassion.
Art therapy sessions can be conducted in an individual or group setting. While it can be used on its own or in conjunction with other treatment modalities, art therapy is often integrated into a comprehensive treatment plan for eating disorder recovery, alongside medical, nutritional, and psychological interventions. Art therapy provides a safe and creative space for exploration, expression, and healing, ultimately supporting one’s journey toward improved mental health and recovery.
Treatment In Calabasas
Calabasas is a city in California. It is a well-known suburb of Los Angeles, located west of the San Fernando Valley and north of the Santa Monica Mountains. Over the past decade, the city of Calabasas has grown in its reputation for luxury as well as for privacy which makes it a hidden gem for residential living for society’s elite, and one of the most desirable destinations in Los Angeles County. It is also home to a plethora of highly qualified mental health clinicians providing an array of therapeutic services and treatment options.
The information above is provided for the use of informational purposes only. The above content is not to be substituted for professional advice, diagnosis, or treatment, as in no way is it intended as an attempt to practice medicine, give specific medical advice, including, without limitation, advice concerning the topic of mental health. As such, please do not use any material provided above to disregard professional advice or delay seeking treatment.
