What is Therapeutic Art? (And How It Differs from Art Therapy)
When people first hear about therapeutic art, they often assume it is the same as art therapy.
While they share some similarities, they are not the same — and understanding the difference is important, especially if you are considering using creativity as a tool to support emotional wellbeing.
In this article, we will explore what therapeutic art really means, how it differs from formal art therapy, and how it can be a powerful, accessible tool for children, adults, and professionals in schools, care settings, and private practice.
What is Therapeutic Art?
Therapeutic art involves using creative activities — such as drawing, painting, collage, or sculpture — as a way of exploring emotions, reducing anxiety, and supporting emotional regulation.
It focuses on the process, not the product. There is no pressure to create something 'good' or 'skilful'. The act of creating is what brings benefit.
At The STILL Method, we view therapeutic art as a gentle, structured way to help individuals:
Express feelings they might struggle to put into words
Reflect on their experiences in a safe, contained way
Build resilience, self-awareness, and emotional literacy
Therapeutic art sessions are typically activity-based and can be easily adapted for different settings, from one-to-one work to group sessions in schools or residential care homes.
How is Therapeutic Art Different from Art Therapy?
Art therapy is a formal, regulated form of psychotherapy, led by a qualified and registered art therapist (in the UK, this means being registered with the HCPC – Health and Care Professions Council).
Art therapy sessions are designed as a form of psychological treatment and typically involve structured, clinical goals. They often explore deep-seated issues such as trauma, abuse, or significant mental health challenges.
By contrast, therapeutic art:
Does not require a qualified psychotherapist to deliver
Focuses on supporting emotional wellbeing rather than treating mental illness
Can be delivered by trained coaches, teachers, carers, and support staff
Emphasises emotional expression and regulation rather than clinical diagnosis
Therapeutic art sits somewhere between pure creative play and clinical therapy. It can be used preventatively to boost resilience and emotional skills, or as part of a wider programme of support for individuals who might be struggling.
Why Does Therapeutic Art Matter?
In today's world, emotional health challenges are becoming more visible across all age groups.
Children are experiencing anxiety earlier than ever. Adults are navigating the pressures of work, family, and the ongoing impact of world events.
Therapeutic art offers a practical, accessible route to emotional support. It is particularly powerful because it:
Encourages self-expression without judgement
Helps regulate nervous system responses (through sensory engagement)
Creates moments of calm and reflection in busy or chaotic lives
Supports connection — both to the self and to others in group settings
For many people, especially those who find talking difficult, art can become a lifeline — a way to explore feelings safely and creatively.
Common Misunderstandings About Therapeutic Art
There are a few myths we often hear:
1. "I’m not artistic, so I can’t do therapeutic art."
Not true. Therapeutic art is about expression, not skill.
A stick figure, a messy splodge of colour, a collage of torn paper — all are equally valid forms of expression.
2. "Therapeutic art is only for children."
In fact, therapeutic art is powerful for people of all ages. Adults often reconnect with creativity they have lost touch with and find it a profound experience.
3. "You need expensive materials."
No. Many therapeutic art activities use simple, low-cost materials: pencils, paper, magazines, glue.
It is the thought and structure behind the activity that matters, not the materials.
How STILL Method Therapeutic Art Supports Emotional Growth
At The STILL Method, our therapeutic art programme is carefully structured around our core principles:
Stop, Talk, Imagine, Listen, Learn.
Each creative activity is designed not just for fun (although it often is!) but with a deeper purpose:
Helping individuals pause and reflect
Providing a safe way to talk about feelings (with or without words)
Encouraging imagination and hope for the future
Tuning into internal cues and emotional signals
Supporting growth and understanding
Our training teaches professionals, parents, and carers how to deliver therapeutic art sessions safely, effectively, and meaningfully — even if they have no previous artistic or therapeutic background.
If you would like to learn more about becoming a STILL Method Therapeutic Art Coach, you can find full details here.
