Art Therapy and Creative Expression
How are art therapy and creative expression different?
There are some overlaps between art therapy and creative expression, but it’s important to know the differences, limits, and benefits of each.
Creative Expression
Led by a therapist or counselor with an understanding of creative approaches in therapy
A tool to use in therapy sessions
Used with the intention of increasing self-awareness, practicing mindfulness and healthy coping, and expressing emotions
Therapist’s role is to provide containment, encourage art making, honor vulnerability and emotions that come up, listen without assuming or interpreting, and refer to an art therapist when appropriate
Art Therapy
Led by a masters-level professional art therapist
A distinct mental health profession, rather than a modality
Used with the intention of processing trauma and beliefs, exploring parts of self, healing inner wounds, and more
Materials are chosen based on client needs and goals
Uses art therapy methods in diagnosis and treatment of psychological disorders
“Art therapy uniquely promotes the ability to unlock emotional expression by facilitating non-verbal as well as verbal communication.” American Art Therapy Association
Common goals in counseling using creative expression:
to improve mindfulness skills
to increase distress tolerance
to develop a therapeutic relationship built on trust
to identify and express emotions
to increase self-disclosure
to improve healthy coping
Common goals in art therapy:
the above goals, and…
to process trauma
to improve emotional regulation and resilience
to achieve personal insight
to improve interpersonal skills
In addition to the goals listed above, art therapy…
“…engages the mind, body, and spirit in ways that are distinct from verbal articulation alone. Kinesthetic, sensory, perceptual, and symbolic opportunities invite alternative modes of receptive and expressive communication, which can circumvent the limitations of language. Visual and symbolic expression gives voice to experience and empowers individual, communal, and societal transformation.”
- American Art Therapy Association
Why is this distinction important?
Professional counselors’ ethics codes require that counselors accurately represent themselves to clients. As a part of informed consent, counselors need to communicate clearly with clients about what happens in session. In situations where a client seems to benefit from creative expression, has difficulty staying connected to their emotions, or demonstrates a need to process trauma differently, the counselor may choose to refer the client to an art therapist. Depending on the situation and needs of the client, the art therapist may serve as the primary therapy or as a supplement to the client’s current treatment.
