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What Is Art Therapy?

Let’s start with the basics: art therapy is a form of psychotherapy that uses creativity—like drawing, painting, sculpting, or even simple mark making—as a way to explore emotions, express yourself, and improve mental well-being. To be art therapy, it must be provided by a licensed art therapist

Here’s the best part: you don’t need to be “good at art” to benefit from art therapy. It’s not about creating a masterpiece; it’s about showing up, exploring, and letting the process take you where it needs to.

For individuals living with dementia, art therapy can unlock new ways to communicate, process emotions, and find moments of joy and connection. It’s a creative and compassionate tool that meets people where they are, helping them tap into their inner worlds—no matter their abilities or stage of dementia.

Now, let’s dive into what an actual session might look like.

What Happens in an Art Therapy Session for Someone Living With Dementia?

Let me reassure you: art therapy isn’t about creating masterpieces or being the next Picasso. It’s about finding a way to express yourself—no matter your ability—with a little help from colors, textures, and that inner creative spark that’s still very much alive.

When it comes to folks living with dementia, art therapy offers something special: a chance to connect, explore, and feel seen without having to find the “right” words. And as humans, no matter our age, it is important for us to feel truly seen and heard. 

dementia art therapy session table and supplies

Step 1: Setting the Scene (Spoiler: It’s Not Fancy)

Art therapy starts with creating a space where people feel safe, comfortable, and respected. Think calm vibes, natural light, and art supplies that are just waiting to be explored.

  • Supplies Galore: From paint and clay to soft pastels and textured paper, there’s always something to spark curiosity. Materials are chosen to match what feels doable and fun for each person.
  • The Right Atmosphere: Whether it’s a one-on-one session or a small group, the environment feels inviting—no judgment, no pressure, and maybe a little background music to help everyone settle in.

This isn’t about recreating art class; it’s about creating a space where you can just be. You can read more about setting up your art space here

Step 2: Easing In With a Gentle Warm-Up

No one dives straight into deep emotional expression—especially not with a blank page staring back at them. We always start light:

  • Exploring materials on scrap paper.
  • Rolling a piece of clay around.
  • Picking a color that feels right today.

This warm-up is less about “doing it right” and more about reconnecting with your senses. It’s a way to say, “Hey, you’re in control here. This is your space where you can make decisions and do no wrong”

Step 3: The Main Event—Let’s Get Creating

Here’s where the magic happens: hands meet materials, and the process takes over.

  • Options, Not Orders: I might suggest a theme or a gentle prompt like, “What colors match how you feel today?” But there’s no right or wrong and it is important to invite people to engage. Some people follow the prompt; others do their own thing. Both are perfect.
  • Process Over Product: It’s not about making something pretty for the fridge. It’s about exploring how it feels to move paint across paper or press clay between your fingers. To let the materials
  • A Little Help When Needed: For individuals with advanced dementia, the focus often shifts to the sensory side of things. Textures, colors, and simple movements become the stars of the show.

The best part? Watching someone’s face light up when they realize, “Hey, I made this.”

Step 4: Reflecting and Sharing (If You Want To)

After the art-making, there’s time to slow down and take a step back.

  • Optional Sharing: Some people like to talk about their artwork. Others prefer to let it speak for itself. Either way, it’s all good.
  • Gentle Questions: I might ask something like, “What do you notice about your piece?” or “How did it feel to use those colors?” No deep dives unless you’re ready.
  • Validation: This part is about making sure you feel seen—whether it’s through your words, your art, or just the fact that you showed up today.

Step 5: Wrapping It Up With Care

Transitions can be tricky, so we end each session with intention:

  • A calming activity, like deep breathing or quietly admiring what’s been created.
  • A warm goodbye and a check-in to make sure you’re leaving the space feeling as grounded as possible.

Why Does This Work for Dementia?

Art therapy works because it meets people where they are—no expectations, no need for explanations.

  • Expression Without Words: When language gets tangled, art becomes the bridge.
  • Connection to Memories: Textures and colors sometimes spark memories, offering moments of reminiscence without forcing it.
  • Emotional Validation: It’s about holding space for the person, not the disease.
  • A Confidence Boost: There’s something powerful about finishing an art piece and thinking, “I did this.”

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The Takeaway

Art therapy for dementia isn’t a cookie-cutter process. It’s fluid, flexible, and deeply human. It’s a space where crooked lines and messy paint splatters are just as meaningful as any masterpiece.

Whether you’re rediscovering a love for creating or just finding a new way to feel connected, every session is a reminder: you’re still here, still capable, and still worth celebrating.

And honestly, that’s what it’s all about.