Art therapyis an alternative treatment method thatpsychologistsare increasingly taking note of in their practices. The foundation of art therapy is the use of art and the creative process to facilitate healing and a sense of wellness in those seeking mental healing and treatment. This kind of therapy is used as an adjunct therapy with a broad spectrum of populations. Children, adolescents, adults and elders can all benefit from the artistic self-expression principles involved in this discipline.

Art therapy has been shown to be effective in the treatment of a vast array of mental disorders such as anxiety,Depression, domestic violence, trauma, addiction, grief and psychosocial problems related to medical conditions.  A wide variety of settings facilitate the use of art therapy including wellness centers, private practices, hospitals, shelters and schools.

The mediums of painting, sculpture, collage and drawing are common visual tools used in the process of art therapy. Some therapists have broadened their practice of art therapy to include other artistic expressions such as dance, writing, photography, music and film. These alternative forms of creativity offer opportunities for growth and transformation similar to the mixed arts that are more traditionally used in the practice of creative therapy.

The American Art Therapy Associationis a non-profit organization that promotes “standards of professional competence” and also works to share information with the general public and other professionals about creative therapy. The AATA’s educational requirements for entry into the profession of art therapy specify that a master’s degree in counseling with a major in art therapy is necessary.

The Art Therapy Credentials Board (ATCB)offers registration and board certification for therapists interested in this specialization. A Registered Art Therapist (ATR), in addition to post-graduate studies, must complete supervised post-graduate clinical hours. Once an individual becomes an ATR, they may take a written examination that qualifies them to become board certified (ATR-BC).

Several diagnostic tools have been developed to assist art therapists in clinical and research settings. Those who administer these tests are trained in their use and applications. The Diagnostic Drawing Series and the Levick Emotional and Cognitive Art Therapy Assessment are examples.

In an article outlining the history and philosophy of art therapy by the The Continuum Center for Health and Healing, it’s noted that creativity and psychotherapy are both processes that embrace change and transformation. This may explain at one level why the two therapies complement each other so well.