Art therapy methods in working with children and adults who have survived a psychotraumatic situation

The article reveals the features of the art therapy method, its tasks, functions and mechanisms. The possibilities of art therapy in the diagnosis and therapy of the psycho-emotional state of the individual are described. It is analyzed that the methods of art therapy are aimed at normalizing the mental state of the individual who has experienced a psycho-traumatic situation. The aim of the article is to reveal the diagnostic and therapeutic ability of art therapy with children and adults who have experienced a psycho-traumatic situation. The psychological features of personality development at different age stages are described and the necessity of taking care of mental health is emphasized. The article also presents the results of a study of the psycho-emotional state of children using the methods of art therapy "Cactus", "Drawing of a person" who have recently experienced a psycho-traumatic situation. The possibilities of psychological assistance using methods of creative self-expression are proposed, in particular fairy tale therapy, clay therapy, music therapy. The possibilities of diagnosing and correcting the psycho-emotional state of a child and adults using art therapy methods are indicated, in this article the emphasis is mainly on the effectiveness of the art therapy method. It has been proven that in working with adults, art therapy can help overcome anxiety, fear, depression, the consequences of experienced stress or trauma. It can also improve self-esteem, stress resistance and social skills. For the elderly, art therapy can improve memory, concentration and mood. It has been established that one of the key components of the use of art therapy is the psychoanalytic interpretation of the created drawings. It is emphasized that in psychological and correctional work with the use of art, the psychologist must adhere to a non-directive approach that creates an environment of safety and comfort.