The Joys of Working as an Art Therapist

Ruby Stevens, Registered Art Therapist (AThR)

One of the great joys of working as an art therapist is witnessing the many ways people use creative process to connect with themselves, with others, and with moments of meaning in their everyday lives. Art therapy offers space for expression that does not rely on words alone, allowing people to engage in ways that feel accessible, relational, and deeply human.

What I value most about art therapy is its responsiveness. Sessions are shaped not only by theory and training, but by listening closely to the people we work alongside. Creative practice becomes a shared exploration, guided by curiosity, respect, and lived experience.

A recent example of this was the development of an Art Therapy Advent Calendar, a small creative resource designed for participants and their families. The idea grew out of ongoing conversations with participants, including one person who spoke about the appeal of gentle, creative prompts. This insight informed the structure and tone of the project, grounding it in art therapy principles of choice, flexibility, and emotional safety.

Each prompt invited simple, optional art-making using accessible materials, with the emphasis on process rather than outcome. The calendar was designed to be neurodivergent-affirming, encouraging participants to engage at their own pace and in ways that felt meaningful.

Moments like this reflect why I love working as an art therapist. Art therapy creates opportunities for collaboration, creativity, and connection that can have a lasting impact on wellbeing and relationships.