The Benefits of Art Therapy

Art therapy is an integrative form of therapy that helps individuals heal through creative expression. It is a form of psychotherapy that involves the use of different art forms and mediums to aid in communication and help people to explore their experiences. 

Art therapy is used in various settings with individuals, couples, families, and groups to support people of all ages with mental health and physical conditions. It is used to treat conditions that include Alzheimer's disease, stroke, traumatic brain injury, and mental health conditions.

This article discusses the techniques and benefits of art therapy, and provides insight on what to consider when seeking this type of therapy.

Benefits of Art Therapy

In art therapy, people can explore and express their thoughts, emotions, experiences, and perceptions of themselves through art. It provides a safe, nonjudgmental, and controlled environment where you can begin to grow and heal.

This type of therapy is often applied in settings like:

• Schools
• Hospitals
• Private practice 
• Community-based programs
• Outpatient centers
• Nursing and rehabilitation centers

Art therapy supports people with conditions such as:

• Substance use
• Cancer
• Traumatic brain injury
• Various levels of cognitive impairment including dementia and Alzheimer's disease

A review of multiple studies on the effectiveness of art therapy shows that it improves quality of life and a person's ability to manage psychological symptoms, medical and age-related conditions, daily challenges, stress, and burnout.

Art therapy is individually tailored to your needs and focuses on personal goals and well-being.

Some benefits of engaging in art therapy include:

• Reduces symptoms of acute and chronic mental health conditions
• Enhances ability to manage acute and chronic medical conditions
• Improves cognitive and sensorimotor functions
• Improves self-esteem and self-awareness
• Cultivates resilience
• Strengthens social skills
• Provides healthy self-expression
• Helps work through stressful and traumatic events

These findings suggest that art therapy can benefit various populations by improving well-being. 

Mental Health Benefits

Art therapy supports people with conditions such as:

• Anxiety
• Depression
• Autism
• Trauma
• Stress

Anxiety and Depression

Multiple studies suggest benefits for people diagnosed with anxiety and depression who receive art therapy. A 2021 review of nine studies about art therapy, anxiety, and depression looked at its use in older adults, prison populations, and more, and found art therapy improved symptoms.

Autism

Autistic children benefit from art therapy in a wide range of expression: drawing and painting, music, and theater. There's some evidence that drawing and painting offer benefits in social skills and communication, often creating a nonverbal pathway for self-expression. 

Trauma

Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) has numerous causes, including natural disasters, child or sexual abuse histories, and military combat. Art therapy is one of many treatment options, typically combined with cognitive behavioral therapy and other psychotherapy approaches.

About one in three people who experience sexual assault are diagnosed with PTSD. Art therapy can help to reduce stress, shame, depression, and anxiety in these cases. Research suggests it can build self-awareness and self-esteem, but more study is needed to fully understand these effects.

Cancer-Related Issues

People living with a cancer diagnosis experience pain, fatigue, nausea, and other physical symptoms as well as mental health challenges like anxiety and depression.

A 2023 review of 17 art therapy studies, including painting for more than 300 children diagnosed with cancer, found art therapy helped boost their energy levels. Studies in both adults and children show that art therapy, practiced alongside traditional medicine, may offer benefits to both cancer patients and their families.

Dementia

Art therapy focuses on cognitive, motor, emotional, and interpersonal skills that can become compromised in people living with Alzheimer's disease and other dementia-related conditions.

There's limited evidence to suggest art therapy is an effective treatment for dementia disorders, but some studies suggest improved quality of life and there's no real risk of adverse effects.

Substance Use

People with substance use disorder may benefit from art therapy. A small 2023 study of drawing, working in clay, making crafts and collages, and other exercises found positive brain wave changes in people with alcohol use disorder who made art.

The study of physical changes in these people also found improved immune function, decreased cortisol levels (stress chemicals), and mood changes including less depression.

Physical Benefits

The research on art therapy remains inconclusive, but some physical benefits can include better pain management and reduced pain levels. Improved pain management plays a role in how much people experience anxiety, depression, and other mental health impacts.

That was the case in a study of 195 people hospitalized for heart disease, digestive conditions, orthopedic surgeries, and more whose medical charts reflected a benefit from art therapy.

Techniques

Therapists may use and recommend many kinds of media and materials to help patients communicate and express themselves. Music, drama, dance, painting, and writing therapies are types of art therapy.

Some techniques used in art therapy include but are not limited to:

• Storytelling
• Playing music
• Photography
• Drawing or doodling
• Collage
• Wood, copper, or metalwork 
• Crafting, such as embroidery or knitting

What to Expect

As with any therapy, a therapist may start by conducting an evaluation, which will include learning about your psychiatric and medical history. Additionally, you and your healthcare provider will discuss concerns and goals, and decide together on a place to begin.

Throughout therapy, the patient and therapist may talk about what they are creating, their process, what comes to mind for them, what they are learning about themselves, and more.

Getting Started

There are a few things to consider when seeking art therapy:

• Find a professional who has education and training in art therapy. Art therapists have at least a Master's degree and have met the standards identified by the Art Therapy Credentials Board. Credentialed art therapists can be found on their website.
• Some insurance plans may cover art therapy. Checking with an insurance carrier can help locate therapists and determine coverage.
• Upon identifying potential providers, request a consultation. Ask questions about their background and training and how they work with patients.
• Before diving in, make sure it feels like a good fit. Part of this process may include sharing information about concerns to make sure their training aligns with your needs.

Summary

Incorporating aspects of dance, drama, music, writing, and more, art therapy supports people in managing mental health and medical conditions.

You don't have to be naturally artistic to utilize art therapy. Art therapy can provide you with activities to better understand yourself and how you relate to others and the world.

Art therapy can help people learn to communicate effectively, express themselves, and heal. Finding a professional with specialized education and training in art therapy is a great first step.