It’s with art that she learnt to solve her problems. Dalal Al Sindi talks of her therapeutic relationship with art.
There’s an artist in all of us and everyone is capable of making a mark, says Dalal, when we catch up with her over coffee. Dalal should know. As Bahrain’s only qualified art therapist, she practises alternative means of healing and therapy through visual expression and the creative process.
Given that each individual’s approach to art is quite personal, Dalal is able to get a deeper understanding of a client’s psyche through an analysis of their use of shapes, colours, symbols and creative inspiration.
Growing up in a family of artists, it was natural for her to dabble in art in her growing years. Art for her was a journey of self discovery, especially during the difficult phases in her life.
“With art, I learnt I could solve my problems creatively and the same applies to others as well,” she says.
Following her master’s degree in art therapy from UK, Dalal went on to pursue her most challenging assignment at the King Fahad Medical City in Riyadh. Here she worked to rehabilitate patients suffering from physical and psychological issues such as stroke, traumatic brain injury, cancer, multiple sclerosis, schizophrenia and depression.
“Alternative therapy results in the understanding and healing of a person’s mind through creative self-expression. I work with individuals and groups to help identify hidden issues and then develop a plan for healing and rehabilitation,” she says.
In her sessions with clients, her focus is on encouragement and positive reinforcement to build confidence and motivation, thus minimising negativity. Dalal now conducts art therapy sessions at the Namaste Healing Centre in Budaiya besides working with schools for special-needs children. She’s also worked with the Ministry of Social Development on a campaign to unite children in Bahrain through art.
She wants to continue her work with children with autism. “Special-needs children never cease to amaze me with their potential. Working with them is the most rewarding experience,” she feels.
The 28-year old is constantly exploring channels in alternative healing. She’s completed a course in the Japanese healing system of Reiki and also dabbles in Yoga.
