What is Therapeutic Art? [and How It's Different from Art Therapy]

Often, when I introduce people to therapeutic art, the response is 'oh, like an art therapist?'.

And the answer is, no. Therapeutic Art and Art Therapy are two different things. If you're wondering what the difference between them is, you're clearly not alone. These two terms are often mixed up, used interchangeably, or misunderstood altogether. Let's break it down together, in a simple, human way. No jargon, no fan-dangle clinical wording, just a plain explanation of what therapeutic art is, how it differs from art therapy, and why it can be such an incredible tool for mental and emotional wellbeing.

So... what is therapeutic art?

A child explores creativity by finger painting on canvas with brown paint, immersing in the tactile joy of art.

Therapeutic art is the use of creative expression to support emotional wellbeing, self-exploration, and personal growth without clinical diagnosis or psychotherapy.

Therapeutic art is simply about:

• Processing emotions through creativity

• Reducing stress and anxiety

• Building self-awareness and confidence

• Creating space for regulation and reflection

You don't need to be 'good at art'. You don't need to analyse your work. And you definitely don't need to turn your feelings into something pretty or meaningful for anyone else.

The whole point of engaging in therapeutic art is for the process.

It's not about the final piece.

Some therapeutic art activities could look like:

• Painting or drawing intuitively

• Working with colour, texture, or movement

• Creative journalling

• Art-making as a grounding activity

The artwork itself isn't being assessed or interpreted, it's simply a way of you being able to express yourself. It may not have any meaning at all, and that's fine!

...and Art Therapy?

So, this is where things often get confusing, let's break it down clearly.

Art Therapy is a regulated mental health profession. In the UK, becoming an art therapist involves a clearly defined professional route, where you would have to complete a HCPC-approved postgraduate qualification [usually a Masters degree] in art therapy, plus spending time working with real clients under supervision. Art therapists work within strict ethical and professional guidelines, enabling them to assess, diagnose, and support people with mental health needs, within a clinical or therapy setting.

Art therapists:

• Are clinically trained and licensed

• Work within a psychotherapeutic framework

• Diagnose and treat mental health conditions

• Use art as part of therapy alongside clinical interventions

The big difference in the creative process, is that art therapy sessions involve structured goals, therapeutic assessment, and verbal processing guided by a qualified therapist. Think of it like this: Art therapy = clinical mental health care using art

Therapeutic art = creative emotional support

Therapeutic Art vs Art Therapy

That's a lot of words to process, hey? Here's a nice clear comparison table.

Both Art Therapy and Therapeutic Art use creativity as a supportive tool, but they serve different needs. Neither is better than the other, the right choice simply depends on what kind of support you are looking for at this stage of your journey.

Who is Therapeutic Art For?

Therapeutic Art is ideal for a vast range of individuals. It's for those who may be feeling emotionally overwhelmed or burnt out, those who find it hard to put their feelings into words, or those who are looking for a gentle, non-clinical form of support. It can be particularly supportive and helpful for those who are curious about self discovery through creativity, or who want to use art as part of a wellbeing or mindfulness practice. You don't need to be in crisis, you don't need a diagnosis, just a willingness to create and explore at your own pace. As someone who works in this field on a 1:1 basis, the approach I take could look very different for each individual. Some people like a clear directive, while others are more open to possibilities. Either way, it doesn't matter about the approach. What matters, is engaging in creativity in the first place!

So, is Therapeutic Art a Replacement for Therapy?

No. Absolutely not. And it's important to be clear about that.

A young artist carefully sculpts a cheerful clay figure, using a pointed stick to add the finishing details.

Therapeutic Art is classed as complimentary, not a substitute for professional mental health treatment. If you are dealing with severe or ongoing mental health challenges, working with a qualified therapist or healthcare professional is essential.

That said, therapeutic art can be an incredibly supportive practice alongside therapy, or as a standalone wellbeing tool. It can benefit both adults and children alike, offering a flexible and accessible way to express emotions, build self awareness, and feel more grounded.

Final Thoughts

If you have found yourself wondering "What is therapeutic art?", then I hope this has helped to clarify things.

Therapeutic art isn't about fixing you, it's about giving your emotions somewhere to go.

It's also important to remember that it is not a replacement for professional therapy.

If you are curious about working with a therapeutic artist, exploring creative wellbeing, or learning about how art can support your emotional health and mental wellbeing, I'd love to welcome you!

🧡

For adults, click here

For children, click here