Art therapy is used to help people to express themselves. The art therapist may have training in psychotherapy and will encourage you to communicate your feelings through painting, drawing or sculpting. The aim is to express your feelings rather than produce a work of art.

The therapy can be given one-to-one with the therapist or in groups.

Being creative can sometimes help you become more aware of, and let go of, difficult feelings. These feelings can then be discussed, if appropriate, in counselling or group sessions.

You don’t need to be able to draw or paint to take part. You will be encouraged to be spontaneous and doodle.

Art therapy is not widely available for cancer patients on the NHS. We have details of how to find an art therapist near you.