Art therapy is a form of psychotherapy that uses the creative process of making art to improve mental, emotional, and physical well-being. While particularly effective with children, art therapy is beneficial for individuals of all ages.
In art therapy sessions, individuals are encouraged to express themselves through various art forms, including drawing, painting, sculpture, and collage. The focus is not on artistic skill or creating a masterpiece, but on the process of creation and self-expression.
How Art Therapy works
The Art Therapy Cycle
Making, looking, and talking, in a loop. The artwork becomes a bridge between feeling and language.
Create
Paint, draw, collage, or sculpt. No art skill needed; the process matters, not the product.
Look
Step back and notice what showed up: colors, shapes, what is missing, what is emphasized.
Reflect
Talk it through with your therapist. The image gives feelings a place to land before words.
Integrate
Connect what emerged to your life and goals, then carry it into the next piece.
What to expect
Art therapists are trained to guide the creative process and help interpret the symbolic and metaphoric messages often conveyed in the artwork. Children often view art-making as play rather than therapy, which can increase engagement and reduce resistance.
Ready to start?
Tell us a little about yourself and we will match you with a clinician trained in Art Therapy.
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