7 Research-Backed Benefits of Art Therapy for Trauma and Neurodivergence

By Julia Spenadel, MA, LPCC, ATR-P

Art therapy is a powerful therapeutic approach rooted in neuroscience, attachment theory, and trauma-informed care. For individuals living with trauma, ADHD, or other forms of neurodivergence, art offers a bridge between what’s felt and what’s said; between survival and healing. In this post, I’ll walk you through seven science-supported ways that art therapy supports emotional healing, regulation, and reconnection.

1. Art Therapy for Nonverbal Expression of Complex Emotions

For many people with PTSD or neurodivergence, talking about emotions can feel impossible. Verbal expression may be blocked due to sensory overload, emotional flooding, or alexithymia.

Research shows that trauma is often stored in implicit memory; emotional, sensory, and nonverbal experiences that words alone can’t access (Gantt & Tinnin, 2009). Art therapy allows these hidden emotions to surface through image, texture, and form.

2. Safe Exploration Without Pressure

Art therapy offers structure, but not rigidity. Unlike traditional talk therapy, which can feel exposing, art creates a safer, slower path to emotional exploration.

In my clinical work, clients often create symbolic images (like butterflies, cages, or empty frames) that reflect deep emotions they struggle to articulate. Research by Grossman (2021) shows that art therapy environments are perceived as more emotionally safe and less overwhelming for trauma survivors.

3. Built-In Mindfulness for a neurodivergent brain

Making art invites focus, rhythm, and repetition, which are key components of mindfulness. For trauma survivors or neurodivergent individuals who may find traditional meditation challenging, art can be a more accessible path.

A study from Drexel University (Belkofer et al., 2014) found that just 45 minutes of art-making reduced cortisol levels in 75% of participants. Clay-based work has also been shown to increase calming brainwaves like alpha and delta (Kruk et al., 2014).

4. Visualizing Emotion and Identity

Art therapy transforms abstract emotions into concrete images. This process helps clients develop mentalization, the capacity to understand their inner world and make meaning of it.

Springham et al. (2021) found that symbolic representation in art therapy improves emotional insight in individuals with complex trauma. A jagged charcoal drawing might represent rage. A watercolor self-portrait might hold grief, shame, or resilience.

5. Reclaiming Agency Through Choice

Art therapy restores agency, a core component of trauma recovery. Choosing a medium, selecting colors, or deciding when to pause are all moments of self-direction. Alfred (2019) explains that through the Expressive Therapies Continuum (ETC), clients are empowered to make creative decisions based on their own readiness and need. Even small acts of choice rebuild a sense of control.

6. Connection to Self and Others

For many, trauma and neurodivergence create disconnection from one’s body, from emotions, and from others. In group art therapy, clients often feel seen for the first time without needing to explain themselves.

Preyde et al. (2021) found that sharing visual metaphors in groups increased belonging and reduced loneliness. In my own practice, clients who once felt isolated find resonance in the shared language of art.

7. It’s Backed by Neuroscience

Art therapy is not just expressive, it is evidence-based. Neuroimaging studies show that creating art stimulates areas of the brain involved in memory, emotion regulation, and executive functioning (Frank et al., 2021; Belkofer et al., 2014).

For clients with Binge Eating Disorder (BED), studies have shown hypoactivation in key self-regulation areas. Art therapy may help re-engage those brain regions, reducing impulsive behaviors and increasing emotional awareness (Mousseaux et al., 2022; Sharma et al., 2023).

Final Thoughts

Art therapy is not just for artists — it’s for anyone seeking new ways to heal, express, and reconnect. Whether you’re navigating anxiety, trauma, ADHD, or simply feel like traditional talk therapy hasn’t worked, creative expression may be the missing piece.

If you’re curious about trying art therapy, contact me to schedule a free 15-minute consultation.

References:

• Gantt, L., & Tinnin, L. W. (2009). Support for a neurobiological view of trauma with implications for art therapy. The Arts in Psychotherapy.

• Belkofer, C. M., Van Hecke, A. V., & Konopka, L. M. (2014). Neurocortical activity during art making. Art Therapy: Journal of the American Art Therapy Association.

• Kruk, K., et al. (2014). Exploring the effectiveness of clay therapy in emotional regulation. The Arts in Psychotherapy.

• Grossman, L. (2021). Trauma-informed practice in art therapy. Frontiers in Psychology.

• Hinz, L. D. (2009). Expressive Therapies Continuum: A Framework for Using Art in Therapy.

• Springham, N., et al. (2021). Art therapy and mentalization. Arts in Psychotherapy.

• Frank, G. K. W., et al. (2021). Neurobiological correlates of BED. Journal of Psychiatric Research.

• Mousseaux, M., et al. (2022). Embodied approaches to eating disorders. Clinical Psychology Review.

• Preyde, M., et al. (2021). Group-based art therapy outcomes. Canadian Journal of Counselling and Psychotherapy.

• Sharma, A., et al. (2023). Art therapy and trauma healing: A neurological lens. Journal of Trauma Studies.

• Alfred, M. (2019). Clinical application of the ETC model. Art Therapy Review.