Creative, Sensory & Environmental Outlets
Art therapy
A credentialed art therapist uses art-making and conversation to support personal mental health goals.
Overview
Clinical art therapy combines creative work with a therapeutic relationship and agreed goals. Artistic skill is not needed. Making art at home or in a class can be comforting, but is not clinical art therapy.
Look for relevant graduate training and credentials such as ATR-BC (Board Certified Art Therapist). A credential is not a state license; ask about the license required for the services offered. Requirements vary by state.
What to expect
- Discuss goals, privacy and preferred materials.
- Draw, paint or shape materials at your own pace.
- Explore meaning with the therapist without being judged on skill.
- Review feelings and plan how to settle after the session.
Why people explore it
- People often explore it for expressing hard-to-name feelings.
- People often explore it for coping with illness or loss.
- People often explore it for building self-understanding.
These are common reasons people look into it — not a sign that it's right for you.
What the evidence says
Evidence varies by use
Good evidence for some uses, weak or no evidence for others.
Better supported
- A structured therapeutic setting can support expression and coping.
Promising, but limited or uncertain
- Benefits vary by condition, study quality and treatment approach; it is not equally proven for all mental health concerns.
Not supported by evidence
- Artwork cannot reliably diagnose a condition on its own.
Possible risks and precautions
- Strong feelings or trauma memories may come up; trauma work should be guided by a qualified, licensed clinician.
- Check materials for allergies, fumes or skin irritation.
- Ask about safe tools and adaptations for vision, hand use or fatigue.
If you have a health condition, are pregnant, or take medicines, ask your healthcare provider first.
Who provides it
- Credentialed art therapists, including ATR-BC professionals, with appropriate state licensure where required.
- Licensed mental health clinicians may collaborate with art therapists; a recreational art instructor is not automatically a therapist.
Questions to ask before booking
- What art therapy credentials and state license do you hold?
- What evidence supports this for the goals we discuss?
- How do you handle distress or trauma reactions?
- Who owns the artwork, and how is it stored or shared?
Costs and coverage
- Ask about session fees, group rates and cancellation policies.
- Coverage depends on the service, provider and plan; check with your plan before booking.
Coverage changes often and differs by plan. Always confirm with your insurer and the provider.
Find this service
Search our free Find Help directory under “Counselors & mental health”. Listings are information only — appearing there is not an endorsement.
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Content reviewed . Written for general education and not yet reviewed by a licensed clinician.
Educational only — not medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Supportive wellness practices do not replace necessary medical or mental-health care. Options are not equally effective, and not every option is right for every person. Please talk with a qualified healthcare professional about your own situation. In an emergency, call your local emergency number; in the US, call or text 988 for crisis support. Emergency help