Can Adults Benefit From Art Therapy?
One question I get asked often by others is “is art therapy only for kids, or can adults try out art therapy too?”
Many people assume and associate that art therapy is only for children, but I have seen firsthand just how meaningful it can be for people of all ages! I work with adults and parents from all different backgrounds, and I have witnessed how art therapy can be used to explore emotions, cope with stressful life transitions, and help clients make sense of their lived experience.
The great news is that you don’t have to consider yourself a professional artist to participate! In art therapy, our focus is not on talent (although I am sure we will learn more about what fills your creativity cup) or creating something that will be put into a fancy museum one day. Art therapists pick materials, prompts, and intervention geared towards your therapy goals, and invite you to experiment, be curious, and help to push you outside of your comfort zone! (Which is what we need to overcome OCD, phobias, and nightmares)!
What Art Therapy Research Shows Us
The research has shown us that creative expression supports our emotional regulation and create more soothing, mindful moments. Art therapy can be the one place throughout the week where you finally get to slow down, and focus only on yourself!
When looking at neuroscience and art therapy research, we see that engaging in creative activities can activate areas of the brain involved in processing emotions and reflecting on past memories. This means that making art isn’t just a “fun activity” it can directly support emotional understanding and self-reflection. Adults can benefit from using art as a tool to explore feelings that are hard to put into words, whether they are processing stress, grief, anxiety, or past experiences.
Art making can take many forms and still be therapeutic. It can be more directive, like drawing or painting how you feel in the moment, or creating artwork about a significant memory or experience. It can also be indirect, such as crocheting, doodling, or working with abstract materials while processing emotions; us art therapists like to call these moments ‘art as therapy’. Both approaches provide a way to slow down, focus, and create a tangible connection to internal experiences.
Art Therapy for Adults in Maryland
Creative activities help the brain regulate emotions, increase mindfulness, and support reflection. Even simple or abstract art can help adults notice patterns in their thoughts and feelings that may otherwise go unrecognized. Over time, regular engagement in creative practices through art therapy can strengthen resilience, self-awareness, and emotional coping skills.
Art therapy is adaptable and inclusive for all adults. As an art therapist, I love working with adults and parents in session, whether we are outdoors, in my Timonium, Maryland office, or connecting over telehealth. There’s no right or wrong way to participate in art therapy! The goal is to provide a supportive space where creativity, expression, and healing can work together, helping people better understand themselves and their emotions!
If you don’t know me, hi there! I’m Kristy Leone, LCPC, LCPAT, ATR-BC (they/she) and here is my little office! I am a licensed mental health counselor and art therapist specializing in OCD, grief, and nightmares in Timonium, Maryland. I am here to help overthinkers with OCD of all ages feel better and live more authentic lives. Read more about my background and training here!
