Art therapy is a mental health profession that uses the creative process of art-making to improve and enhance the physical, mental, emotional, and spiritual well-being of individuals of all ages and abilities. It is based on the belief that the creative expression inherent in artistic activities can foster growth, healing, and self-discovery.

In art therapy sessions, clients engage in various art-making activities such as painting, drawing, sculpting, and collage. The therapist provides a safe, non-judgmental space for clients to explore their thoughts, feelings, and experiences through these creative modalities. The art-making process, along with the discussion and reflection around the artwork, can uncover insights, reduce stress, and promote personal growth.

No. No artistic talent is required. You do not need to consider yourself an "artist” or have any prior art experience to participate in and benefit from art therapy. Art therapy is accessible to everyone, regardless of your skill level. Many clients come to art therapy with little to no art experience, and that is perfectly fine. What matters most is your willingness to be open, experiment, and allow the creative process to guide your self-discovery. Art therapy is about the journey, not the final product. The therapist will guide you through exercises and activities tailored to your comfort level and creative preferences, to facilitate the therapeutic process, not to evaluate your artistic abilities.

Art therapy can be beneficial for individuals of all ages, abilities, backgrounds, and life experiences. It is particularly helpful for those dealing with mental health issues, trauma, addiction, chronic illness, developmental disabilities, and life transitions. Art therapy can also enhance overall well-being and personal development.

Each art therapy session is unique and tailored to the individual client's needs and goals. In many cases, the client completes their artwork at home allowing more time for discussion and reflection in the session. The session will begin with a check-in, followed by questions about the client’s experience of the art-making activity. The therapist will then guide the client through reflection and discussion of the artwork, helping to uncover meaningful insights and themes. The session concludes with a wrap-up and a plan for the next steps.

While both involve the creation of art, art therapy is primarily focused on the therapeutic process and the personal growth that can emerge from it. In art therapy, the focus is on the client's internal experience, emotional expression, and psychological well-being, rather than the artistic merit of the final product. Art classes typically emphasize the development of technical skills and the creation of aesthetically pleasing artwork.

Before your first session, you’ll likely have completed a client registration form—this is all you’ll need to bring initially. During the first meeting, you’ll discuss your needs and goals with the therapist, who will then assign a personalized art task for you to work on at your own pace. You’ll receive clear instructions and mindfulness exercises to guide you, and the completed artwork should be brought to your next session. Completing the task on your own allows you to explore your creativity without pressure, making your session time with the therapist a space for deeper reflection on what your artwork reveals. The therapist will recommend materials suited to your project, and you’re welcome to choose supplies that fit your style and budget.