What is Art Therapy? According to the American Medical Association’s Health Care Careers Directory, art therapy is a mental health profession that uses the creative process of art making to improve and enhance the physical, mental and emotional well-being of individuals of all ages. It is based on the belief that the creative process involved in artistic self-expression helps people to resolve conflicts and problems, develop interpersonal skills, manage behavior, reduce stress, increase self-esteem and self-awareness, and achieve insight.
Art therapists work in a wide variety of settings, including hospitals, local community settings, educational institutions, businesses, and private practice.
Visit these online resources to learn more about the field of art therapy:
American Art Therapy Association
Art Therapy Credentials Board, Inc.
American Medical Association and Health Professions Network
Recommended Reading: The Art Therapy Sourcebook by Cathy Malchiodi