Overview

Art therapy is a type of psychotherapy that uses different forms of art, including drawing, painting, and sculpture, to lift mood, awareness, and self-esteem.

Art therapy allows people to express their inner thoughts when speaking is difficult or not possible. It's thought to provide benefit by using self-expression to improve mood and healing.

People use art therapy for anxiety, depression, autism, quality of life, schizophrenia, and many other conditions, but there is no good scientific evidence to support most of these uses.

Don't confuse art therapy with music therapy. These are not the same.



Uses & Effectiveness

Possibly Effective for

  • Depression. Different types of art therapy help improve symptoms in adults and children with depression.

There is interest in using art therapy for a number of other purposes, but there isn't enough reliable information to say whether it might be helpful.

Side Effects



Special Precautions and Warnings



There isn't enough reliable information to know if art therapy is safe. But there's no reason to expect safety concerns when used correctly. Art therapy shouldn't be used in place of more proven therapies.

Pregnancy and breast-feeding: There isn't enough reliable information to know if art therapy is safe to use when pregnant or breast-feeding. But there's no reason to expect safety concerns when used correctly.

Interactions

We currently have no information for Art therapy overview.

Dosing

Art therapy is usually done with a trained art therapist or other healthcare professional. It involves many different types of art, including drawing, painting, sculpting, collage, crafts, and murals. It can be done individually or in a group setting. Sessions usually last 60-90 minutes and happen weekly or twice weekly for up to 12 weeks. Talk to your physician or other healthcare professional before using this treatment.
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CONDITIONS OF USE AND IMPORTANT INFORMATION: This information is meant to supplement, not replace advice from your doctor or healthcare provider and is not meant to cover all possible uses, precautions, interactions or adverse effects. This information may not fit your specific health circumstances. Never delay or disregard seeking professional medical advice from your doctor or other qualified health care provider because of something you have read on WebMD. You should always speak with your doctor or health care professional before you start, stop, or change any prescribed part of your health care plan or treatment and to determine what course of therapy is right for you.

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