Common Art Therapy Terms
Art Therapy is a mental health profession that uses visual art-making, a creative approach and emphasis on metaphor to support clients on their healing journey.
In this blog post, I go over some of common Art Therapy terms and definitions that you may hear in workshops, by therapists or in readings:
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An art directive refers to the prompt or task an Art Therapist may invite you to engage in a session. Usually an art directive is suggested as a way to address a treatment goal or support the client in better understanding their experience.
For example: draw a safe place or use lines to show your feelings.
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One of the main goals in Art Therapy is the experience of the art-making process rather than the finished product. By focusing on the process, clients are able to tune into their emotions, thoughts and connect to their body. In a session, you may discuss and explore your final product but the therapist’s curiosity tends to be more focused on your experience throughout.
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This term is often used by therapists’ to describe different therapeutic experiences. It can serve as a metaphor for a space to hold emotions and experiences. It is also a technique to increase self confidence and tolerance in managing challenging emotions.
In Art Therapy, the art itself can serve as a container. The therapeutic space itself and the therapist can also be described as a container. In addition to clients resourcing through personal containers in and outside of sessions.
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A nonjudgmental emotional environment the therapist creates where clients can freely express themselves through art without fear of criticism.
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A therapeutic tool that combines art-making with written reflection. It often includes drawings, collages, color washes, or mark-making alongside journal entries to explore emotions and experiences. It may include prompts to spark reflection or may be in a free form format as well.
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The therapeutic act of taking an internal experience (like fear, grief, or anger) and giving it form through art, which can help create distance from overwhelming emotions and offer new perspectives.
For example, an Art Therapist may ask you to create an image to externalize your sadness. This would include you creating an image to describe this sadness, offering perspective and distance from the feeling inside your body.
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Spontaneous, unplanned drawing where you let your hand move across the page freely, allowing unconscious thoughts and feelings to surface without judgment.
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This refers to the many materials that can be used in an Art Therapy session.
Some examples include: markers, pastels, paint, collage, clay, watercolors, pens, etc.
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An expressive arts activity where you create an image of your body and use symbols, colors, or words to represent sensations, emotions, or experiences held within different areas. This can be a great way to help you connect with the sensations in your physical body.
Understanding and identifying these concepts may support you in feeling more prepared when you are finding yourself with a curiosity to begin your Art Therapy journey. Know that if they are ever brought up in sessions and you don’t know what they mean, ask your therapist - I am sure they wouldn’t mind giving you their definition. Art Therapy is a personalized experience to foster a deeper connection with yourself and your body - there is no right way or expectations in sessions.
Are you feeling called to start your Art Therapy journey? I offer both individual Art Therapy sessions and group workshops that combine Somatic Healing and creative expression in Miami, FL. Feel free to book a session or reach out if you’re curious about which approach might be right for you.
