The Healing Power of Art Therapy: Expressing Emotions Through Creativity
Art has a unique way of helping us process feelings that words sometimes can’t capture. Whether you’re feeling stressed, anxious, or simply want a new way to reflect on your emotions, art therapy offers a creative pathway to mental wellness.
From painting to drawing, sculpture to collage, expressing yourself through art can provide clarity, reduce tension, and enhance your emotional well-being. Let’s explore how therapeutic art can benefit different people and how you can get started.
Why Art Therapy Works
The practice of mindful art isn’t about creating a masterpiece — it’s about the process. Engaging in creative activities can:
- Reduce stress and anxiety
- Help process complex emotions
- Encourage self-reflection and insight
- Improve mood and emotional regulation
- Promote mindfulness and focus
Scientific studies suggest that art-making stimulates parts of the brain involved in emotion regulation and self-expression (Slayton, D’Archer & Kaplan, 2010)… It can also support cognitive processing, particularly when navigating trauma or major life transitions (Chapman et al., 2016).
Who Is Art Therapy For?
You don’t have to fit into a specific category to benefit from therapeutic art practices. Whether you’re looking for a way to unwind after a busy day, explore your emotions, or simply try something new, creative expression can be a powerful tool for anyone. It’s not about skill or talent — it’s about giving yourself permission to create, reflect, and connect with your feelings in a safe and supportive way.
However, there are certain groups that can benefit specifically from creative self-expression, for example:
Veterans
For Veterans, art therapy can provide a safe space to process experiences from service. Expressing memories, emotions, or challenges creatively can support emotional release and help manage stress or symptoms of PTSD.
Carers
Carers often juggle multiple responsibilities, leaving little space for their own emotional processing. Art therapy can be a restorative tool, helping you reconnect with yourself, reduce burnout, and express feelings that may otherwise be suppressed.
Neurodivergent Children and Adults
For ND individuals, mindful art practices can support communication, emotional regulation, and self-expression in ways that verbal methods may not. Creative activities can be tailored to sensory preferences and cognitive strengths, making self-expression more accessible and enjoyable.
Adults Experiencing Stress, Anxiety, or Depression
Even without a clinical diagnosis, adults managing everyday stress or low mood can benefit from art-based mental health support. Engaging in creativity can serve as a coping tool, a mindfulness practice, and a way to explore emotions safely.
Adolescents and Teens
Teenagers often face identity and emotional challenges. Using art to process emotions provides a non-verbal outlet to explore feelings, build self-confidence, and develop coping strategies during this critical developmental stage.
Getting Started With Art Therapy
1. Try Different Creative Activities
Experiment with what feels right — sketching, painting, making collages, or digital art. There’s no “right” way to do it.
2. Focus on the Process
The goal isn’t a perfect painting — it’s the act of creating and reflecting on what comes up for you.
3. Make It a Habit
Even 10–15 minutes of creative time a few times a week can help you notice emotional changes, reduce stress, and feel more grounded.
4. Combine With Mindfulness
Pairing art with breathing exercises, meditation, or calming music can enhance the relaxing, restorative effects.
5. Seek Guidance if You Want
While you can explore art on your own, a trained art therapist can provide structured activities and help you explore emotions safely — especially if you’re dealing with trauma or significant stress.
Final Thoughts
Art therapy is a versatile tool for emotional expression, self-reflection, and mental wellness. By incorporating creative practices into your routine, you can begin to understand and process your emotions more effectively.
At Body & Mind, all our programs include complimentary premium access to Calm, helping you integrate mindfulness alongside creative expression. Whether it’s through our tailored programs, Telehealth services, or access to our extensive referral network for additional support, we’re here to help you create lasting, positive changes. Learn more.
References
American Art Therapy Association. (n.d.). “What is Art Therapy?” Retrieved September 4, 2025, from https://arttherapy.org
Chapman, L., Morabito, D., Ladakakos, C., Schreier, H., & Knudson, M. (2016). Art therapy for combat-related PTSD: Recommendations for research and practice. Art Therapy, 33(2), 74–84.
Czamanski-Cohen, J., & Weihs, K. (2022). The effectiveness of art therapy in reducing stress and enhancing quality of life in adults: A systematic review. Frontiers in Psychology, 13, 867519.
Malchiodi, C. A. (2003). Handbook of Art Therapy. Guilford Press.
Morris, A., & Mowbray, D. (2020). A review of art therapy among military service members and Veterans with post-traumatic stress disorder. Journal of Military and Veterans’ Health, 28(4), 12–24.
Regev, D., & Cohen-Yatziv, L. (2021). Effectiveness of art therapy with adult clients in 2018–2019: A systematic review. Arts & Health, 13(2), 155–175.
Slayton, S. C., D’Archer, J., & Kaplan, F. (2010). Outcome studies on the efficacy of art therapy: A review of findings. Art Therapy, 27(3), 108–118.