5 Myths about Art Therapy
When you hear the words “art therapy,” what do you imagine? Do you picture someone pointing to your drawing and telling you what it means (see myth #4)? Do you hear a therapist telling you that using the blue marker means that you’re sad? Do you think of children finger painting (see myth #2)?
Whatever comes to mind, I’m here to clarify what art therapy really is and what it is not.
1. Myth: Art therapy is for artists.
While artists can benefit from art therapy, it is not a requirement to call yourself an artist to participate in or benefit from art therapy. All that is required is the willingness to try something new and step outside of your comfort zone. Oftentimes, those without art experience are at an advantage when starting art therapy. They may not be as distracted by techniques and skills, and they may be able to act on their creative intuition and impulses more easily. Additionally, art therapists often question the definition of “artist”, and they may have the belief that you are an artist regardless of skill level.
2. Myth: Art therapy is for children.
Can children participate in art therapy? Absolutely. Is it only for kids? Definitely not.
Art therapy is a mental health service that can benefit people at any age. Culturally, art making may be more accepted as a kid’s activity since it requires a level of play and exploration, which children are typically encouraged to do. However, people at any age may benefit from engaging in the playful part of themselves. In art therapy, digging into the creative process often helps adults access emotions, get in touch with their inner child, and explore their identity.
3. Myth: Art therapy is like an art class.
Sometimes, art therapists will guide clients in the art making process or teach them how to use certain materials. While this also happens in an art class, art therapy differs in its goals and purpose. Art classes are typically intended to teach a specific skill, while art therapy uses art materials and processes for the purpose of mental health treatment. Clients may gain skills while engaging in art therapy, but that isn’t the primary purpose.
4. Myth: Art therapists interpret artwork.
Part of an art therapist’s education includes learning about symbolism and creativity. We are often knowledgeable about the history of art, symbols, and imagery in psychology. However, we are typically taught to view clients’ artwork as one data point, meaning that one symbol or work of art does not equal one meaning. Rather, a symbol or piece of art may lead us to ask more questions or explore an idea further. For example, the art therapist may notice certain color choices and ask questions about their meaning to the client (instead of assuming that a color means one thing). If your art therapist tells you that your creation means something specific instead of asking questions or sharing observations, it may be time to find a new art therapist.
5. Myth: Coloring or making art on my own is art therapy.
While these activities may be therapeutic, they are not art therapy. Art making and other creative activities can help someone practice mindfulness, have fun, and develop new skills. On the other hand, art therapy, by definition, includes the presence of a professionally-trained art therapist (read details at this blog post). This is because art therapy is a mental health profession and service. Just as we cannot be our own chiropractor or our own doctor, we cannot be our own art therapist (this is true for art therapists, too!).
Let’s review.
Art therapy is a mental health treatment open to anyone regardless of age or art skill level.
While there is some overlap between art therapy and an art class, art therapy is different in its primary purpose and goal.
Making art independently is not the same thing as engaging in art therapy since an art therapist is not involved.
An art therapist’s role is not to interpret your artwork for you; rather, we are there to guide, support, and approach with curiosity.
