Craig Balfany was drawn to art, but he also wanted to help others. Then by chance, he discovered art therapy, and his professional path became clear.
A Tool For Healing
Art therapy is the therapeutic use of art-making within a trusted professional relationship to enhance physical, emotional and social well-being. "Our patients face challenges as a result of illness or because of their experiences in life and relationships. Art becomes a tool for healing," explains Balfany, an art therapist at University of Minnesota Children's Hospital, Fairview (www.uofmchildrenshospital.org).
He works with adolescents who have mental or chemical health issues. When teens arrive on the unit, he first does an assessment. He may, for example, ask them to do a series of drawings. "I determine their level of functioning, and I look for relational themes," he says.
In Balfany's "open studio," patients can choose painting, sculpture or other media. Under his guidance, they engage in a creative process. If they're willing, he helps them reflect on the meaning of their work. Some, however, are simply happy with the product. "Being able to create something makes them feel good," Balfany says.
Education And Outlook
Registered art therapists are master's-level professionals with a background in studio art and psychology. Because art therapy is not a licensed profession in Minnesota, many therapists complete the requirements for licensure in marriage and family therapy or professional counseling, in addition to their education in art therapy.
This ensures their professional standing and enhances their marketability, says Balfany, who also directs the art therapy program at the Adler Graduate School (www.alfredadler.edu).
