Art Therapy versus Art as therapy

Art Therapy Vs. Art as therapy

​The biggest distinction between the two is who is assisting in the process and the emphasis on the created product or not. In utilizing art therapy it is conducted with a licensed art therapist to safely navigate healing and the emphasis is on the process. While art as therapy can be conducted in a therapy session, it is more often conducted by an individual and although the process is still important here, there is more emphasis on the product of the art piece. 

Art Therapy with Licensed Professionals

Art therapy is the utilization of art practices and therapeutic practices for healing under the supervision of a licensed art therapist. According to the Art Therapy Credentials Board or ATCB, clients “are able to explore feelings, reconcile emotional conflicts, foster self-awareness, manage behavior, develop social skills, improve reality orientation, reduce anxiety and increase self-esteem". Despite therapy being in the name, this practice is not limited to helping those with mental health illnesses as it has been shown to help with other clients, in other settings, specifically medical, educational, and forensic.

Many individuals may speculate that art therapy is simply just about creating art. However, this is not true at all. Art therapy is for all individuals, old to young or artistic to non-artistic. Utilizing art therapy is all about the process and not the product of the creation itself. The goal of art therapy is to help improve an individual's functioning and overall well-being. It is different from traditional art practices as there is the inclusion of therapy from licensed art therapists. 

Licensed art therapists are required as art therapy can uncover some heavy trauma and emotions that need to be navigated safely. Having someone unlicensed in art therapy can be harmful as they may not know how to properly guide clients and may unintentionally, retraumatize them. 

Engaging in Art as a Form of 'Therapy'

Art as therapy is about utilizing the creating process itself as a form of healing. The creation process is not led by a licensed art therapist. Sometimes you can find this practice in therapy groups or art classes or even just an individual can engage in art itself. In some cases, the product of the art is heavily focused on. Though it does not have to be. 

Besides the benefit of utilizing art as a de-stressor, it can also be a great hobby and a self-esteem booster. When finishing a new piece, many find enjoyment and a sense of pride and accomplishment. It can also be a great way to connect with others and promote healthy socialization. 

While the purpose of this writing is to help provide education, it is important to note to continue doing your own research on this topic if you so seek to! This information and posting should not substitute seeing a medical provider and actual therapeutic treatment. You should always contact your personal provider and medical team regarding personal concerns. 
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References
Art Therapy Credentials Board [ATCB]. (n.d.). What is Art Therapy? https://www.atcb.org/what-is-art-therapy/

Hearts for hope. (n.d.). Art therapy vs. Art in therapy: What you need to know. https://www.heartsforhopetherapy.com/blog/art-therapy-vs-art-in-therapy

Worden, M. (2020). The difference between art therapy and therapeutic art-making. Art from the Streets. https://artfromthestreets.org/blogs/news/art-therapy-near-me


Author: Eliana Rosete
Reviewed by: ZenDeva Team
Date of Last Update: 14 March 2022

​Photos are free stock images from Pexels.