Art & Creativity as Therapy
As therapists, we know that many of our clients come to us overwhelmed by the pace of life, carrying unspoken emotions, or feeling stuck. While talk therapy provides structure and insight, sometimes words alone aren’t enough to capture the depth of what our clients are experiencing. This is where art and creative expression can become a powerful complement to the therapeutic process.
You don’t need to be an art therapist—or even feel “creative”—to introduce art into your sessions. Incorporating creative tools isn’t about producing beautiful artwork; it’s about offering clients an alternative pathway to process emotions, reduce stress, and access parts of themselves that may be hard to articulate.
Why Art in Therapy Works
Think back to the natural curiosity and joy of childhood—drawing, coloring, humming, or making shapes out of clay. These weren’t just pastimes; they were intuitive ways to explore and express feelings. As adults, we often forget that creativity is still available to us as a resource for healing.
Research shows that art-making can:
Reduce stress and promote mindfulness through repetitive, calming motions.
Provide a safe container for emotions that feel “too big” for words.
Support nervous system regulation through rhythm, movement, and sensory engagement.
Enhance client engagement, especially with those who feel stuck in traditional talk therapy.
Simple Ways to Incorporate Art into Sessions
Coloring & Doodling: Adult coloring books or free-form doodling can help clients calm racing thoughts and stay present. These activities are low-barrier and non-threatening, especially for those hesitant about art.
Painting: Invite clients to use watercolors or acrylics to represent feelings through color, shape, and texture. Encourage them to focus on the process, not the product—bold strokes, soft washes, or messy blends all have meaning.
Music & Rhythm: Even simple acts like humming, drumming on a desk, or creating playlists can regulate mood and bring emotional release. Consider incorporating sound for clients who respond strongly to auditory experiences.
Mixed Media Exploration: Offer options like collage, clay, or sand tray materials. Allowing tactile engagement can bring up new insights, particularly for clients processing trauma or working on grounding skills.
Clinical Considerations
Set the frame: Normalize creative activities by emphasizing they are therapeutic tools, not art classes.
Stay attuned: Watch for emotional shifts that arise during art-making and create space to process them.
Adapt materials: Choose media that match the client’s comfort level and sensory needs.
Know your scope: If deeper art-specific interventions are needed, consider consultation or referral to a licensed art therapist.
A Gentle Invitation
Incorporating creativity into therapy is an act of empowerment for both you and your clients. It allows for flexibility, expression, and healing in ways that talk alone cannot always reach. By weaving in simple creative practices, you can help clients reconnect with their innate capacity for self-expression, resilience, and joy.
So, the next time you’re in session, consider offering a blank page, a box of crayons, or space for a simple melody. You may find that creativity opens new doors to insight and connection.
Tips for Therapists
✅ Remind clients: It’s not about art skills — it’s about the process.
✅ Always check in about comfort level with creative exercises.
✅ Use art as a springboard for discussion, not as a finished product to “analyze.”
Why Art in Therapy Works — References
1. Reduce stress and promote mindfulness through repetitive, calming motionsKaimal, G., Ray, K., & Muniz, J. (2016). Reduction of Cortisol Levels and Participants’ Responses Following Art Making. Art Therapy, 33(2), 74–80. https://doi.org/10.1080/07421656.2016.1166832Sandmire, D. A., Gorham, S. R., Rankin, N. E., & Grimm, D. R. (2012). The Influence of Art Making on Anxiety: A Pilot Study. Art Therapy, 29(2), 68–73. https://doi.org/10.1080/07421656.2012.683748
2. Provide a safe container for emotions that feel “too big” for wordsMalchiodi, C. A. (Ed.). (2011). Handbook of Art Therapy (2nd ed.). Guilford Press.Moon, B. L. (2016). Art-Based Group Therapy: Theory and Practice. Charles C Thomas Publisher.
3. Support nervous system regulation through rhythm, movement, and sensory engagementvan der Kolk, B. (2014). The Body Keeps the Score: Brain, Mind, and Body in the Healing of Trauma. Viking.Gaskill, R. L., & Perry, B. D. (2014). The Neurobiological Power of Play: Using the Neurosequential Model of Therapeutics to Guide Play in the Healing Process. In C. Malchiodi & D. Crenshaw (Eds.), Creative Arts and Play Therapy for Attachment Problems (pp. 178–194). Guilford Press.
4. Enhance client engagement, especially with those who feel stuck in traditional talk therapyHuet, V. (2015). The role of art therapy in supporting recovery for people with mental health difficulties: A critical review of the literature. International Journal of Art Therapy, 20(2), 61–72. https://doi.org/10.1080/17454832.2015.1018333Slayton, S. C., D’Archer, J., & Kaplan, F. (2010). Outcome Studies on the Efficacy of Art Therapy: A Review of Findings. Art Therapy, 27(3), 108–118. https://doi.org/10.1080/07421656.2010.10129660
Categories:
Blog
Expressive therapy
Art Therapy
Therapy Tools
Downloads
