Empowering Teens Through Art

Sessions at the Art Center are held on a bi-weekly basis. The next scheduled sessions will take place on Monday, May 8, Monday, May 22, and Monday, June 5, all from 3:30–5 PM. A waitlist is in place for sessions that reach capacity, and additional sessions will be made available this fall. Visit bit.ly/VACNJTeenArtTherapy for more information and to register.

As teenagers navigate the complexities of academic, social, and personal pressures, it can be difficult for them to find ways to express themselves and cope with the stressors they encounter. The Visual Arts Center of New Jersey is making a difference in the lives of area teens through a powerful new art therapy program.

The Art Center’s teen art therapy program, “Self-Expression Through Art”, is designed to help young people manage their emotions and feelings through artistic expression. This program is led by experienced art therapist Megan Tuttle, who creates a supportive and nurturing environment where teens can explore their feelings and develop healthy coping mechanisms.

The teen art therapy program is held in a safe and inclusive space, where participants can feel comfortable sharing their thoughts and emotions. Through a variety of media such as paint, clay, and collage, participants are encouraged to explore their emotions and express themselves in a non-verbal way. This can be especially beneficial for those who struggle to put their feelings into words. By creating art, teenagers can gain a deeper understanding of their emotions, which can help them to manage their stress and anxiety more effectively. During the sessions, there are “share out” moments where teens can learn to not just understand how they feel, but articulate it as well.

The teen art therapy program at the Visual Arts Center of New Jersey provides a unique and powerful tool for young people to help manage their emotions and cope with the challenges of adolescence. By using art as a form of self-expression, participants can develop a sense of empowerment and confidence that will serve them well throughout their lives.