The Healing Power of Art Therapy: No Skills Required

By Kaitlyn King, LMFT, AT-R

Curious about the potential benefits of art therapy but not really sure what it is or if you have to be “good” at art to participate? Keep reading to learn more!

What Is Art Therapy?

The American Art Therapy Association defines art therapy as “a mental health profession in which clients, facilitated by the Art Therapist, use art media, the creative process, and the resulting artwork to explore their feelings, reconcile emotional conflicts, foster self-awareness, manage behavior and addictions, develop social skills, improve reality orientation, reduce anxiety, and increase self-esteem.”

Art therapy is not just simply about making something beautiful or technically "good." Instead, it's about the process – about exploring our inner experiences, processing trauma, reducing stress, building self-awareness, and discovering personal meaning.

You Don't Need to Be an Artist

One of the most common misconceptions about art therapy is that you have to be skilled at drawing or painting to participate. This is absolutely not true. I often even tell people, it’s sometimes beneficial to not have any familiarity with art materials because the lack of familiarity can help clients surrender and trust the process. Overall, the less you focus on the outcome, the more you can benefit from the therapeutic process. Art therapy isn't about aesthetics; it's about expression. A stick figure, a simple scribble drawing or even a splash of color can speak and communicate volumes. The materials you use are tools, NOT measures of talent.

The Benefits of Art Therapy

1. Emotional Expression Without Words: Through imagery, color, shape, and form, people can express emotions that may be buried or difficult to explain. Art becomes a voice when words fall short.

2. Stress Relief and Relaxation: Engaging in creative activity can naturally lower cortisol levels, the hormone responsible for stress.

3. Increased Self-Awareness: Creating, reflecting, and discussing your work with a therapist can uncover patterns and beliefs that lead to personal growth.

4. Support Through Trauma and Grief: Similar to EMDR, art therapy activates both the left and right hemisphere of the brain which aids in reprocessing trauma in nonverbal and gentle way. In addition, art therapy can be integrated with trauma-focused therapy modalities to increase the benefits!

5. Improved Emotional Regulation: By externalizing inner tension into artwork, people can feel more in control and more clarity around their emotions.

6. Enhanced Self-Esteem: Completing artwork gives a tangible sense of achievement and builds confidence.

Who Can Benefit from Art Therapy?

There is a common assumption that art therapy is just for kids but in reality, everyone can benefit from art therapy – children, teens, adults, and older adults. 

It can be especially helpful for (but not limited to): 

•  Anxiety, depression, or trauma

• Grief or loss

• Chronic illness

• Autistic people

• Caregivers and those experiencing burnout

What Really Happens in an Art Therapy Session?

A typical session may include:

1. Check-in (this could be a reflection around your week, an exploration of what would be helpful to talk about, a recap of what was processed in your last session, etc.)

2. Engaging in the creative process, guided by a prompt or open exploration on topics discussed and agreed upon by client

3. Reflection on the imagery, as comfortable

Sessions may be one-on-one, in groups, or part of a broader treatment plan.

What’s the difference between art therapy vs. just doing art?

While making art on your own can be therapeutic, art therapy involves a trained therapist, intentional healing goals, and a supportive relationship to guide the process. Engaging in creative practices can be intimidating, and having the support of a trained art therapist can help you experience the benefits while also having a guide throughout the process.

Can I Do Art Therapy Virtually?

Yes, the benefits of art therapy can be experienced through telehealth! Your art therapist can help you determine if you want to purchase specific materials, however, you can also use things you likely already have on hand like simple printer paper and a pen, magazines or newspapers for collaging, Canva or Pinterest for collaging, digital whiteboards available on telehealth, and more. Virtual art therapy can expand access for folks who don’t have an art therapist practicing in-person in their area or for folks who prefer telehealth for other reasons.

You Are Creative Enough

You do not need to be an artist to participate in art therapy. You only need to show up, be willing to get vulnerable and maybe a little messy. I often tell clients to “bring your kindergartener self into the room with us today and let’s invite them to help us tap into our creativity.” We are all creative beings by nature. Somewhere along the way, many of us were told we weren't "good" at art –nand so we stopped. Art therapy reclaims that creative spirit: not for performance or judgment, but for healing. So whether you are navigating something painful or just curious about reconnecting with yourself, consider giving art therapy a try.

Interested in Art Therapy?

Look for a licensed art therapist (ATR or ATR-BC) in your area (Art Therapist Locator), or explore virtual options. Many offer free consultations or sliding scale sessions.

Remember: You don't need talent. You just need openness.