What is Art Therapy?

Art therapy encourages free selfexpression through painting,

drawing, or modeling
It is based on the idea that selfexpression can be used to reduce
stress, address emotional problems,
address behavior problems, and
improve social skills.
Art or illustration acts as a means or
portal for one to express ones self.

Art Therapy
By: Hope Gerhart, #5

Who does art therapy

benefit?
Art therapy benefits
individuals with ADHD.
It is also a treatment for
individuals with
depression and anxiety.
References

Gerteisen, J. (2008). Monsters, Monkeys, & Mandalas: Art

Therapy with Children Experiencing the Effects of
Trauma and Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder (FASD).
Art Therapy: Journal Of The American Ar Therapy
Association, 25(2), 90-93.
Kersten, A., & van der Vennet, R. (2010). The Impact of
Anxious and Calm Emotional States on Color Usage in
Pre-Drawn Mandalas. Art Therapy: Journal Of The
American Art Therapy Association, 27(4), 184-189.
Van der Vennet, R., & Serice, S. (2012). Can Coloring
Mandalas Reduce Anxiety? A Replication Study. Art
Therapy: Journal Of The American Art Therapy
Association, 29(2), 87-92.

Tips
Art therapy uses coloring,
drawing, painting, and sculpting
as a means to improve the
students well-being and
confidence.
Encourage discussion about the
art being created.
Set aside time for breaks. Even
when participating in art
therapy, children with ADHD
can become
antsy and
need a
break to
decompress
and refocus.