N/NY-0103 - Understanding Evidence-Based Practice for Art Therapy in Mental Health

Description

Understanding evidence-based practices for art therapy within mental health need not be a daunting task. Through describing findings from a critical review we examine particular art therapy approaches that have an evidence-base, and conclude with strategies for furthering how evidence-base practice can be better utilized out in the field.

Learning Objectives

Articulate existing arguments around the concept of evidence-based practice in art therapy.
Identify which art therapy approaches are currently supported by an evidence-base.
Comprehend strategies for furthering the evidence-base for art therapy approaches in mental health.

Dr. Theresa Van Lith

Associate Professor and Clinical Coordinator

Florida State University

Theresa Van Lith is currently the Course Coordinator for the Master and Graduate Diploma of Art Therapy programs at La Trobe University. Previously, she joined Florida State University's faculty, focusing on coordinating clinical placements and engaging in practical research in art therapy and mental health. Her research primarily centers on developing and implementing art therapy studies aimed at practical improvements in quality of life, assessing intervention effectiveness, and determining best practices. A significant part of her work includes the ongoing development and implementation of a practical art therapy research strategy, with a future focus on practical techniques for reducing anxiety, and stress, and improving overall mental outlook through mindfulness and art-based practices.

She actively contributes to the American Art Therapy Association, serving as Associate Editor for its academic journal. She is also a Board Member of the Australian, New Zealand, and Asian Creative Arts Therapy Association (ANZACATA). Her practical contributions to the field have been acknowledged with several awards, including the American Art Therapy Association Seed Grant (2021), the National Endowment for the Arts Research Award (2020), and the Department of Art Education Faculty Teaching Award (2019).