As part of our Child Life Program, the Children’s Regional Hospital at Cooper offers creative arts therapy to support the emotional well-being of our pediatric patients and their families. These therapeutic interventions use art and music to help patients cope with the challenges of illness, hospitalization, pain, and trauma.
Creative arts therapies can provide comfort, reduce anxiety, and foster emotional expressions in a safe, supportive environment.
Art Therapy
Art therapy is a form of expressive therapy that uses the creative process of making art to support healing and emotional growth. During hospitalization, children and families can use art therapy to:
- Reduce stress and emotional distress
- Process illness- or trauma-related experiences
- Improve cognitive and motor function
- Build self-esteem and self-awareness
- Strengthen emotional resilience and insight
- Enhance social skills
Art therapy is led by mental health professionals trained in counseling, human development, psychology, multiculturalism, and the healing potential of art.
Music Therapy
Music therapy involves the use of music to address physical, emotional, cognitive, and social needs within a therapeutic relationship. Guided by a credentialed music therapist, sessions are tailored to meet each child’s unique needs and goals.
The benefits of music therapy may include:
- Reduced anxiety and stress
- Pain management,
- Emotional expression
- Improved memory
- Improved communication
- Support for physical rehabilitation
- Compassionate care during end-of-life situations