What to Expect in an Art Therapy Session
A practical guide to art therapy sessions: what happens, how to prepare, and what it is not. Learn from a first-timer's perspective.
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What is an art therapy session?
An art therapy session is a structured time with a trained art therapist where you use art materials to express thoughts and feelings, alongside talking. According to the British Association of Art Therapists, 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 BAAT. You do not need to be skilled in art to benefit from art therapy BAAT.
Who is art therapy for?
Art therapy can help people of all ages and at all stages of life, including those whose life has been affected by difficult personal or cultural experiences, illness and/or disability BAAT. It is not limited to people with a diagnosed mental health condition. If you are curious about understanding the difference between art therapy and an art class, see our guide on Art Therapy or Art Class? Understanding the Difference.
How do I prepare for my first art therapy session?
Preparation is simple. You do not need to bring any art materials or have any artistic skills. Wear comfortable clothes, as some materials like pastels or clay can be messy. Think about what you hope to get from the session, but there is no need to have a clear goal. If you are anxious, you can ask the therapist what the first session will involve. It may also help to read Questions to Ask a Potential Art Therapist to know what to discuss before you begin.
What happens during a typical art therapy session?
A session usually lasts between 50 and 60 minutes, though this can vary. You will be in a calm room with art materials available. The therapist will guide you, but you decide what to make. You might be invited to use art to express and articulate complex thoughts and feelings through art making BAAT. This can be especially helpful for difficult or traumatic experiences which may be hard to talk about BAAT. After making art, you and the therapist may talk about what you created and what it brought up for you. The therapist will not interpret your art in a fixed way or tell you what it means. Instead, they support you in finding your own meaning.
What art materials are used?
The materials vary by therapist and setting. Common ones include paper, pastels, paints, clay, and collage materials. The choice is often yours. Some people prefer drawing, others prefer working with their hands. There is no right or wrong material. The focus is on the process, not the product.
What should I not expect from an art therapy session?
Art therapy is not an art lesson. The therapist will not teach you techniques or critique your work. It is also not a quick fix. Progress may take time. Art therapy is not a replacement for medical treatment if you need it. For more on how to use simple creative prompts outside of sessions, see Using Simple Creative Prompts for Emotional Processing.
How is art therapy regulated and how do I find a qualified therapist?
In the UK, the titles art therapist and art psychotherapist are protected by law, and all UK art therapists must be registered with the Health and Care Professions Council (HCPC) BAAT. You can check the HCPC register. In other countries, regulation varies. Always check with the relevant professional body in your area.
Comparison Table: Art Therapy vs. Art Class
| Aspect | Art Therapy | Art Class |
|---|---|---|
| Goal | Emotional expression, insight, improved mental health | Skill development, technique, finished product |
| Guidance | Therapist supports process, no instruction in art techniques | Teacher instructs and gives feedback |
| Evaluation | No grading or critique of artwork | Often feedback and assessment |
| Materials | Varied, process-oriented | Often specific to the medium taught |
| Setting | Therapeutic, confidential | Educational, often group |
| Who leads | Trained art therapist | Art teacher or instructor |
Decision Checklist: Is Art Therapy Right for Me?
- Do I want to explore feelings that are hard to put into words? BAAT
- Am I open to making art without worrying about skill?
- Do I prefer a one-on-one or group setting?
- Am I willing to commit to several sessions?
- Have I checked that the therapist is qualified and registered? BAAT
- If I am in crisis, have I also sought appropriate medical or emergency help?
How can I make the most of my sessions?
Be honest with your therapist about what feels comfortable and what does not. You can ask to stop or take a break at any time. Remember that you are in control of what you share. The therapist is there to support you, not to judge. Over time, art therapy can lead to lasting benefits, such as new ways of coping BAAT. If you are interested in building a creative habit outside sessions, see Starting a Five Minute Daily Creative Practice.
When should I seek additional support?
Art therapy can be part of a broader plan for mental health, but it is not a substitute for medical advice. If you are feeling unsafe or in crisis, contact emergency services or a crisis line in your country. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional about your specific situation. For more information on art therapy, visit the BAAT website BAAT.
