Art Therapy Session as a “Surgery of the Soul”

Photo by Ashley Batz on Unsplash

Today I’d like to share a metaphor that came up during a conversation with one of my clients.It beautifully captures how I experience the process of art therapy.

For me, an art therapy session is like a surgery room where a surgeon enters in sterile clothing, gloves, and mask, taking clean instruments and starting a delicate, precise operation.

An art therapist works in a similar way — in a metaphorical sense.They must remain “sterile” toward the client: not bringing in their own opinions, experiences, or advice.Instead, the therapist stays fully congruent — genuine, empathetic, and deeply attuned to the client’s emotional state.

During the session, the therapist gently helps the client to “open up” what lies inside — unprocessed emotions, inner conflicts, or long-buried experiences that still cause pain.Then, with the same care, they help to “close” this space, restoring balance and wholeness, and ending the session with respect for what has emerged.

Art therapy is a safe space where creativity allows one to explore, release, and heal.Sometimes words are not needed — and it is through painting, sculpting, or collage that the quiet yet profound work of healing begins.