The Difference Between Art Therapy and Therapeutic Art-Making

NOTE: This blog was originally posted on June 17, 2020 but has been updated for 2024

Art Therapy Near Me.  Both art therapy and therapeutic art-making can provide alleviation to the adverse effects of stress and trauma by giving individuals a new medium of expression. Anyone who has shown any interest in the idea of art as therapy has likely wondered about the main difference between therapeutic art-making and art therapy itself. This is actually something that many art experts are asked about often, and in fact, there are a few differences between the two that should be made note of.

 

Here are some of the most common differences between therapeutic art-making (aka “art as therapy”) and art therapy.

 

GOAL OF EACH

Perhaps one of the most common differences between the two is the overall goal, which is self expression. In other words, the main goal involving art therapy is to either communicate or express something, while the main goal involving therapeutic art-making is to either experiment or learn something. Whether through a new technique involving creating something specific or replicating an example or instruction. Additionally, creating and learning something will also impact how both artwork and art supplies are also viewed by others.

 

 

RELATIONSHIPS

Another common difference between therapeutic art-making and art therapy involves the general relationship between the artist and the professional involved.

 

• While art therapy typically involves a therapeutic relationship, which is considered to be the most important part of any type of therapy, there are certain elements and boundaries to a therapeutic relationship. An art therapy session is facilitated by a professional art therapist who leads a client through art exercises that encourage emotional, creative, and spiritual growth. 

• On the other hand, therapeutic art-making can potentially involve relationships; however, they don't involve a traditional client/therapist relationship, as the role of an instructor is different than that of a therapist. While the student/teacher relationship has different dynamics than a more traditional relationship. When it comes to art teachers, they will need to be both competent and skilled in all areas that they teach; however, they do not receive all of the same training that is required in order to practice as an art therapist.

 

 

INTERPRETATION OF ART

One other common difference between art therapy and therapeutic art-making is how the actual art product itself is viewed. 

 

• In terms of art therapy, artwork will generally be viewed as either a reflection or extension of a part of the client. Essentially acting as a mirror that reflects their general thoughts or feelings. 

• Therapeutic art, on the other hand, tends to focus more on the product itself, with the overall goal being to create a specific piece of beautiful artwork. Oftentimes, the goal is to create something that is interesting, beautiful, or visually appealing, with students also wishing to either frame their creations or display them in some other fashion.

 

 

ART THERAPY BENEFITS

• You will be able to take advantage of having a safe and private place to express anything and everything that may be on your mind.
• As a result of self expression, you will be able to work through past traumas or experiences with a professional therapist.
• You will be a part of the therapeutic relationship, which is considered to be extremely unique.
• An art therapy session itself is able to offer an opportunity for both intentional discovery and self reflection.

 

 

THERAPEUTIC ART MAKING BENEFITS

• You will be able to learn all sorts of new skills, which can help to greatly increase your self esteem.
• You will be able to develop and increase your technical abilities, which you can use for your visual self expression.
• Social interaction will be able to be achieved, which can greatly help you with building relationships with other individuals taking part in the same class.
• As a result of self expression, you will be able to experience a feeling of catharsis.
• You will have the chance to indirectly learn more about yourself.

UPDATE FOR 2024

Art therapy remains an essential tool for emotional expression and healing, and in Austin, Texas, this practice has grown significantly over the years. As the city's creative scene continues to expand, so do the opportunities for both therapeutic art-making and formal art therapy. The distinction between the two is still important: while art therapy requires a licensed therapist to guide the process, therapeutic art-making can be done in informal settings, focusing more on creative expression than clinical goals.

Art Therapy: The Basics

Art therapy combines psychological methods with creative expression, using various art forms like painting, drawing, and sculpting to help individuals work through emotional issues. It's an especially effective tool for trauma recovery, stress management, and personal growth. The process focuses less on the final artistic product and more on the therapeutic benefits of expression and exploration of emotions.

In 2024, the importance of art therapy in treating anxiety, depression, and PTSD has been recognized by more healthcare institutions. Research continues to show that this practice can significantly reduce symptoms of mental health conditions by offering a safe, creative outlet for processing emotions.

Benefits of Art Therapy in 2024

The healing potential of art therapy has only deepened with new research and societal changes. The following benefits are still relevant today:

1. Emotional Expression: Art therapy remains an excellent way for individuals to express emotions that are hard to put into words. It creates a non-verbal communication channel that helps unlock deep emotional issues.

2. Processing Trauma: New studies in 2024 have further confirmed that art therapy can be a powerful tool for trauma survivors. Austin, with its history of holistic healing, offers several opportunities for trauma-informed art therapy practices, many of which cater to veterans, abuse survivors, and individuals recovering from natural disasters or accidents.

3. Mindfulness and Stress Reduction: The creative process in art therapy encourages mindfulness, allowing individuals to focus on the present moment. As mental health awareness continues to rise in 2024, mindfulness techniques, especially when combined with art therapy, are more popular than ever in Austin.

4. Self-Esteem and Confidence: 2024 has seen increased participation in community-driven art initiatives in Austin. These programs help individuals develop confidence and self-esteem by creating art in collaborative, non-judgmental spaces. Group art therapy sessions often help participants feel part of a supportive community.

Therapeutic Art-Making: A Broader Approach

While art therapy is a clinical practice involving licensed therapists, therapeutic art-making is more accessible and can be done without formal supervision. In Austin, there are numerous workshops, community centers, and art classes designed to promote emotional wellness through creative activities. Unlike formal art therapy, therapeutic art-making focuses on the creative process as a form of stress relief and personal enjoyment, without necessarily addressing mental health in a clinical sense.

Therapeutic art-making has gained even more traction in Austin in 2024, with many non-profits and art collectives offering workshops where people of all ages can gather to express themselves creatively. These sessions often promote social connection, self-reflection, and personal growth.

Art Therapy Services in Austin, Texas: 2024 Update

1. Austin Art Therapy: This private practice offers both individual and group therapy, helping people address trauma, anxiety, depression, and other emotional challenges. With new remote and hybrid options, clients can now access art therapy from the comfort of their homes, reflecting the broader digital shift in mental health services post-pandemic.

2. The Art Therapy Studio of Austin: A hub for creative healing, this studio continues to offer specialized programs in trauma recovery and mental health for individuals, families, and groups. In 2024, their focus on helping people cope with relationship issues and family dynamics remains vital to the Austin community.

3. Community and Non-Profit Initiatives: Non-profits like Creative Action offer informal, therapeutic art-making opportunities for youth and adults. While not art therapy in the clinical sense, these programs provide essential outlets for self-expression and emotional exploration. Creative Action has expanded its programs in 2024 to reach underserved populations in Austin, including refugees and those impacted by recent housing crises.

4. Hospital and Rehabilitation Programs: In 2024, art therapy is increasingly being incorporated into hospitals and rehab centers around Austin. These facilities now offer art therapy as part of treatment plans for individuals dealing with physical illness, addiction recovery, and PTSD. With more research supporting the connection between art and healing, local healthcare providers are expanding their art therapy services.

How to Choose the Right Art Therapy Program in 2024

When selecting an art therapy program in Austin, it's crucial to consider several factors:

• Certification: Make sure the therapist is certified by a recognized body such as the American Art Therapy Association (AATA). As mental health awareness grows, more unlicensed practitioners may emerge, so it’s important to verify credentials.

• Specialization: Some art therapists focus on particular issues such as trauma, addiction, or grief. In Austin, there are therapists with various specializations that can tailor their approach to your specific needs.

• Setting: Some people prefer the intimacy of one-on-one therapy, while others may benefit from group sessions. Group art therapy can provide a sense of shared experience and connection, which many participants find therapeutic.

• Hybrid and Online Options: In 2024, many therapy practices now offer remote art therapy sessions. If you're unable to attend in person or prefer the convenience of virtual sessions, several Austin-based therapists have integrated online platforms into their services.

Art therapy and therapeutic art-making are essential mental health resources in Austin, Texas. Whether you’re seeking formal therapy for trauma recovery or simply want to engage in creative expression to relieve stress, there are many options available in the Austin area. In 2024, the city’s commitment to creativity and mental health continues to grow, offering a wealth of opportunities for individuals to explore the transformative power of art. If you're interested in discovering more about art therapy in Austin, check out the local resources and start your journey toward emotional well-being through creativity.


Thank you for visiting the Art From The Streets blog, an Austin based nonprofit that provides a safe and encouraging environment in which the positive spirit and creativity for those experiencing homelessness are nurtured through their own therapeutic art-making. If you are looking to further discuss our program, please contact us today for more information.