Art therapy
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Art therapy involves many forms of art to treat anxiety, depression and other mental and emotional problems. Art therapy became a mental health profession in the 1930s. Today it is practiced in hospitals, clinics, public and community agencies, wellness centers, educational institutions, businesses and private practices.
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These uses have been tested in humans or animals. Safety and effectiveness have not always been proven. Some of these conditions are potentially serious, and should be evaluated by a qualified healthcare provider. |
Grade* |
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Aging (quality of life) |
B |
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Caregiver training |
B |
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Suicidal adolescents |
B |
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Transitional stressRelating to injury or concern. (children) |
B |
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Alzheimer's disease |
C |
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Bone marrow transplant |
C |
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Cancer caregiving |
C |
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Encopresis (fecal incontinenceThe involuntary passage of urine or faeces. associated with psychiatric disorders) |
C |
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Grief |
C |
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Identity/self efficacy (adolescents) |
C |
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Leukemia |
C |
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Military-service related stressRelating to injury or concern. |
C |
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Phonological disorders (children) |
C |
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Psychiatric outpatients |
C |
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Schizophrenia |
C |
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Sickle cellThe basic unit of all living organisms. disease (children) |
C |
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Post traumatic stressRelating to injury or concern. disorder (PTSD) (children) |
D |
*Key to grades:
A: Strong scientific evidence for this use;
B: Good scientific evidence for this use;
C: Unclear scientific evidence for this use;
D: Fair scientific evidence against this use (it may not work);
F: Strong scientific evidence against this use (it likely does not work).
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Art therapy may evoke distressing thoughts or feelings. Use under the guidance of a qualified art therapist or other mental health professional.
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Some forms of art therapy use potentially harmful materials. Only materials known to be safe should be used.
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Related clean-up materials (like turpentine or mineral spirits) that release potentially toxic fumes should only be used with good ventilation.
Licensed by Natural Standard.
Copyright © 2012 Natural Standard (www.naturalstandard.com) Commercial distribution prohibited. This flashcard is intended for informational purposes only, and should not be interpreted as specific medical advice. Patients should consult with a qualified healthcare provider before making decisions about therapies and/or health conditions.
While some complementary and alternative techniques have been studied scientifically, high-quality data regarding safety, effectiveness, and mechanism of action are limited or controversial for most therapies. Whenever possible, it is recommended that practitioners be licensed by a recognized professional organization that adheres to clearly published standards. In addition, before starting a new technique or engaging a practitioner, it is recommended that patients speak with their primary healthcare provider(s). Potential benefits, risks (including financial costs), and alternatives should be carefully considered. The above monograph is designed to provide historical background and an overview of clinically-oriented research, and neither advocates for or against the use of a particular therapy.