The Historical Emergence of Art Therapy, its Modern Day Usage, and Possible Alternative Application

Abstract

This paper focuses on the evolution of art therapy from the founding of the field of Psychology under Freud to the current day’s use in a variety of populations. Art therapy is defined by the American Art Therapy Association as “an integrative mental health and human services profession that enriches the lives of individuals, families, and communities through active art-making, creative process, applied psychological theory, and human experience within a psychotherapeutic relationship.” (AATA, 2020) Art therapy falls within the field of client or patient based approaches with the addition of creative work. The paper also addresses a need in research surrounding effectiveness for college-aged students. It is important to note that in the research there appears to be two broad thought currents that descend from Jung’s research and reconvene as modern art therapy, leading to differing opinions on its path from conception to modern use. The paths are one of theoretical philosophy based interventions and practical handson approaches ultimately both utilizing art making as therapeutic practice.