Art Therapists have an understanding of art and creativity and how this relates to peoples mental health and emotional well-being. Art Therapists seek to provide a trusting and facilitating environment in which children and young people are able to safely express themselves in a variety of ways.

They help their clients find an outlet for often complex and confusing emotions, which they may not necessarily be able to express verbally. They also foster self-awareness and confidence. Part of an Art Therapist’s role is to devise distinct ways of working with clients in different environments. This may include providing a safe environment and a variety of art materials to those who do not feel able to talk, allowing the art itself to become a valuable means of communication.

In group work, an art therapist will encourage members to relate to each other via the art they produce. The images and their meanings for the group will need to be worked through which can take some time.