art therapy

American  

noun

1. a type of psychotherapy that encourages the expression of emotions through artistic activities such as painting, drawing, or sculpture; psychotherapy based on the belief that the creative process involved in the making of art is healing and life-enhancing.

---

Etymology

Origin of art therapy

First recorded in 1940–45

Example Sentences

See Examples For:

art therapy

Smalman said the way she helps people process these emotions is through art therapy.

From Salon ● Jul. 11, 2026

"I've tried antidepressants, antipsychotics, mood stabilizers, benzos, sleeping pills and stimulants, cognitive behavioral therapy, dialectical behavioral therapy... tai chi, reiki, meditation, veganism, art therapy and music therapy," the former stand-up comedian said.

From Barron's ● Feb. 25, 2026

A recent study from Drexel University's College of Nursing and Health Professions explored a new way to ease the transition with an art therapy intervention to address the health needs of overweight, postmenopausal women.

From Science Daily ● Jan. 13, 2024

And the less said about Marc’s journey, the better, art therapy being much lower on the list of acceptable rom-com clichés than zippy one-liners or a City of Lights backdrop.

From Los Angeles Times ● Jan. 5, 2024

Those had landed her a visit from the guidance counselor, who’d suggested that Fawnda might try an art therapy group to help heal her inner tantruming child.

From "Beauty Queens" by Libba Bray