Understanding art psychotherapy
This is page is help you hopefully understand what Art Psychotherapy is and discover how art can be a powerful tool for self-expression and healing. This could offer a unique path to mental and emotional well-being
What is art psychotherapy?
“Art therapy uses art as the primary mode of expression, alongside talking with an art therapist. It aims to reduce distress and improve social, emotional and mental health by promoting insight, self-compassion and a sense of agency and self-worth.” - British Association of Art Therapists, 2026
During art therapy, you are supported by an art therapist to use art to express and articulate often complex thoughts and feelings through art making. This may be following difficult or traumatic experiences which may be hard to talk about directly.
The title of Art Therapist/Art Psychotherapist is a protected title which means for someone to practise art psychotherapy means they must have qualified with Masters degree level qualification from a certificated course/university.
Who can benefit from art psychotherapy?
Anyone can benefit from art psychotherapy. You do not have to be 'good' at art to participate or gain from it. It is for anyone who wants to use creativity to express the emotions, feelings, behaviours, and thoughts they want to work through.
Art psychotherapy can help with a wide range of issues, offering a safe and creative space to explore and process difficult experiences, foster self-awareness, and develop coping strategies.
Our unique approach to art therapy
At Place Beyond Therapy Therapeutic Services, our sessions are non-directive, meaning there is no set activity or exercise that must be done. We address what the client wants to talk about in that particular session.
Our approach does not rely solely on verbal communication, making it particularly helpful when there is not the vocabulary to express what is felt. Art can be used instead, providing a powerful alternative for expression and understanding.
Ready to explore art psychotherapy?
If you are interested in learning more and want to see if art psychotherapy is right for you, the first step is simple.