DonateNow

Art Therapy

Art therapy is a mental health profession that uses the creative process of art making to improve and enhance the physical, mental and emotional well-being of individuals of all ages. It is based on the belief that the creative process involved in artistic self-expression helps people to resolve conflicts and problems, develop interpersonal skills, manage behavior, reduce stress, increase self-esteem and self-awareness, and achieve insight.

Click here to read Who Are Art Therapists.

History of Art Therapy

Visual expression has been used for healing throughout history, but art therapy did not emerge as a distinct profession until the 1940s. In the early 20th century, psychiatrists became interested in the artwork created by their patients with mental illness. Click here to read more.

The Association

The American Art Therapy Association (AATA) is an organization of professionals dedicated to the belief that the creative process involved in art making is healing and life enhancing, Its mission is to serve its members and the general public by providing standards of professional competence, and developing and promoting knowledge in, and of, the field of art therapy.

Click here to read the answers to the Frequently Asked Questions

Click here to view our Fact Sheet.

Click here to read more about Art Therapy.

Mission

The American Art Therapy Association is an organization of professionals dedicated to the belief that the creative process involved in the making of art is healing and life enhancing. Its mission is to serve its members and the general public by providing standards of professional competence, and developing and promoting knowledge in, and of, the field of art therapy.

 

Art Therapy in Action!

  • The Practice Center provides operational support, services and tools for members.

    read more

  • The Career Center enhancing career development.

    read more

  • The Art Clearinghouse containing research & therapy information.

    read more