Navigating Life's Crossroads with Art Therapy: Uncovering Clarity Amidst Cognitive Dissonance

Have you ever found yourself feeling unsettled, unfulfilled, or undone, unsure of which path to take next? Life's pivotal moments and difficult decisions can leave us grappling with a state of cognitive dissonance – the uncomfortable tension that arises when our beliefs, values, and experiences conflict.

According to Rev. Dr. Angel Gorrell's transformative 'Braving Difficult Decisions' course, there are 10 key stages we often face when confronted with major life transitions: Stirring, Surrendering, Seeking, Summoning, Shedding, Sifting, Selecting, Searching, Striving, and Sated Joy. Whether you're at a crossroads, in crisis, or simply yearning for more clarity and fulfillment, traversing these stages can be a daunting journey.

This is where the power of art therapy shines. As an Arise Art Therapist, I've witnessed firsthand how the creative process can guide individuals through cognitive dissonance and empower them to move forward with intention and self-discovery.

Through the lens of art therapy, we can explore each of Dr. Gorrell's 10 stages. For example:

Stirring – Use art-making to give voice to the unsettled feelings and underlying tensions that are stirring within you. Engage in free-form drawing, painting, or collage to externalize the internal storm.

Surrendering – Create mandalas or other symbolic artwork to represent the act of letting go and trusting the process. Experiment with different media to convey the sensation of release.

Seeking – Employ visual journaling techniques to map out your questions, options, and the wisdom you're seeking. Doodle, sketch, or collage your way toward clarity.

It is possible to dive into each stage with artistic exploration, whether through individual sessions or an art therapy group. Either way, art therapy offers a profound pathway for navigating life's crossroads. By engaging the creative mind, we can transcend cognitive dissonance, uncover our truest selves, and embark on a journey of growth, resilience, and sated joy.

If you're feeling unsettled, I invite you to explore the transformative power of Arise Art Therapy.