Art Therapy versus an Art Class: What is the Difference and What is Right for You?

In the world of creativity and self-discovery, both Art Therapy and art classes offer unique avenues for personal expression and growth. However, understanding the distinctions between the two can help you make a more informed decision about which path aligns better with your goals and personal needs. In this article, we’ll explore what Art Therapy is, how it differs from an art class, and how to find a good match for you.

Art Therapy:

Art Therapy is an integrative mental health profession and service that supports individuals, families, and communities through active art-making, creative process, applied psychological theory, and human experience within a psychotherapeutic relationship. Art Therapists hold Master’s degrees in Art Therapy ensuring that services are delivered in a safe and informed way. Art Therapy goes beyond the realm of creating aesthetically pleasing artwork and focuses generally on the process of art making, not necessarily the final piece or “product” that is created in session.

Key Elements of Art Therapy:

1. Therapeutic Relationship: Art Therapy involves working with a licensed Art Therapist who guides the process and facilitates self-exploration through various art mediums. The connection and working relationship between the client, Art Therapist and the art process is the therapeutic relationship that is essential to the healing work.

2. Emphasis on Process, not Product: The emphasis is on the creative process itself, encouraging individuals to express their emotions and thoughts without judgment while attuning to how the individual is experiencing the materials and the art process. The final artwork is secondary to the therapeutic experience.

3. Exploration of Emotions: Art Therapy often involves discussions about the created artwork, allowing individuals to explore and gain insights into their emotions, experiences, and challenges.

Art Classes: Learning a Craft

In contrast, an art class is primarily focused on skill development, technique, and the acquisition of artistic knowledge. Whether you're a beginner or an experienced artist, an art class provides a structured environment for learning and honing your artistic skills.

Key Elements of an Art Class:

1. Instruction and Guidance: In an art class, a qualified instructor imparts knowledge, teaches techniques, and guides participants through the process of creating art with a focus on skill enhancement.

2. Outcome-Oriented: While enjoyment and personal expression are important, art classes often place a significant emphasis on the final product, aiming to develop the individual’s artistic abilities and craftsmanship.

3. Skill Development: Participants in art classes gain practical skills, learn about different art mediums, and often follow a curriculum designed to enhance their artistic capabilities.

Choosing the Right Path for You:

Understanding the differences between Art Therapy and an art class is crucial for selecting the path that aligns with your intentions. If you seek personal growth, self-exploration, and emotional healing, Art Therapy might be the ideal choice. On the other hand, if your focus is on skill development, learning artistic techniques, and creating visually appealing artwork, an art class might better suit your goals.

Finding a Credentialed Art Therapist:

If you’re interested in finding an Art Therapist, there are a couple paths you can take:

• Use the “find a therapist” feature on Psychology Today and designate “Art Therapy” as a modality. Once you generate a list of providers, you will want to look for someone with any or all of the following: 
  • Education including a Master’s degree (minimum) in Art Therapy
  • The letters ATR (registered Art Therapist) or ATR-BC (registered and board-certified Art Therapist) after their name.
  • Note: There are many providers who designate that they do “Art Therapy '' but are not actually trained in providing Art Therapy services. Make sure to double check their education if you’re looking for Art Therapy from a qualified professional.
• Google “Art Therapist” and your city to see which providers near you have websites that you can visit.

If you have further questions about Art Therapy or are interested in pursuing individual Art Therapy services or other therapeutic art offerings, please reach out to me directly via the contact form on this website.