Art therapy vs Therapeutic Art: What’s the Difference?
If you’ve ever searched for creative approaches to wellbeing, you’ve probably come across both art therapy and therapeutic art. While they sound similar and both can feel supportive and meaningful, they serve two different purposes. And understanding the difference can help you choose the approach that best fits your needs.
What Is Art Therapy?
Art therapy is a formal evidence based therapy delivered by a qualified art therapist. It combines psychotherapy and art therapy theory, a therapeutic relationship and creative expression to support emotional, psychological, and social wellbeing.
Art therapy is not about making “good” art. Instead, the focus is on the process, the meaning behind the imagery, and what emerges emotionally or psychologically during art-making. Sessions are guided by a trained professional who can safely support complex experiences.
Key features of art therapy include:
Delivered by a trained and registered art therapist
Grounded in psychological and therapeutic frameworks
Includes assessment, goal-setting, and reflection
Can support complex mental health concerns
Conducted within clear and professional boundaries and the art therapist is registered with a governing body that promotes ethical standards the therapist must adhere to
Art therapy sessions often involve both art-making and gentle conversation, helping clients make sense of what emerges at their own pace.
What Is Therapeutic Art?
Therapeutic art refers to creative activities that feel calming, expressive, or supportive, but are not therapy in a clinical sense. This might include painting to relax, journaling, colouring, pottery, or attending a creative workshop focused on self-expression or stress relief.
While therapeutic art can be deeply beneficial, it does not involve treatment planning, or clinical mental health support. There is usually no formal therapeutic relationship and facilitators are not necessarily trained mental health professionals.
Key features of therapeutic art include:
Focus on creativity, enjoyment, and self-expression
Can reduce stress and support emotional release
Often self-guided or workshop-based
Not designed to treat mental health conditions
No clinical assessment or therapeutic containment
You don’t need to be artistic to benefit from either approach. Creativity is about expression, not performance. Whether supported by a therapist or explored on your own, engaging with art can open doors to insight, regulation, and connection in ways words sometimes can’t.
If you’re unsure which path feels right, a conversation with a qualified art therapist can help you explore your options safely and gently.
