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Art therapy for teens

If your teen is having trouble expressing themselves, art therapy can provide a creative outlet for teens to express their feelings in a safe and supportive environment. Art therapy is a form of therapy that uses art to help teens communicate, process their emotions, and self-reflect. It can be very helpful for teenagers who are struggling with mental health issues or communicating verbally.

Art therapy gives teens a safe, creative space to explore their emotions, build self-awareness, and process difficult experiences through guided artistic expression.

Medically Reviewed By Dr. Elnaz Mayeh PhD, LMFT

8 min read

Updated July 2, 2025

How Does Art Therapy Work For Teens?

Art therapy for teenagers usually takes place in a group setting, led by a trained art therapist. A therapist will provide teens with different art materials and help guide them through various activities, such as painting, drawing, sculpting, and collage-making.

Other techniques in art therapy can include photography, coloring, and creating collages. Therapists may also ask questions about the art that is created, in order to help them process what they are feeling.

How Effective is Art Therapy for Teens?

There is some evidence to suggest that art therapy can be particularly helpful for teenagers. One study found that art therapy was associated with reductions in anxiety, depression, and stress in teenage participants.

Another study found that art therapy was associated with improved well-being and self-esteem in teenage girls. While more research is needed to confirm the effectiveness of art therapy for teenagers, the available evidence suggests that it may be a helpful tool for managing mental health issues in this age group.

Unlock Healing Through Creative Expression

If your teen is struggling with emotional or mental health challenges, art therapy can provide a powerful path to healing. Our Masters level therapists guide teens in using art to explore feelings, relieve stress, and build confidence. Contact us today to learn more about how art therapy can support your teen’s growth and recovery.

Benefits Of Art Therapy For Teenagers

Art therapy, a key component of our out of control teenager programs, can offer many benefits for teenagers emotional, cognitive, and spiritual well-being. Some of the ways art therapy can help adolescents include:

Self-expression

Teen art therapy can provide a safe space for teenagers to express their thoughts and feelings in a creative way.

Improved Coping Skills

Art therapy can help teens process and cope with difficult emotions, such as sadness, anger, and anxiety.

Increased Self-esteem

As teens develop their creative skills they will become more proud of their work thus growing their confidence.

Identity Exploration

Teens can also use art therapy to explore their identity and figure out who they are. This is especially helpful for teens struggling with gender dysphoria.

Improved Problem Solving

Art therapy can help teens learn how to problem-solve and think creatively as they work with different mediums. This is a highly transferable skill.

Reduced Stress

Art therapy can provide a sense of relaxation for teenagers. It can be a way for teens to engage themselves in something positive and calming.

Our goal in developing Key Healthcare was to create programs that gave teens the guidance they needed to draw on their strengths and realize their potential to live fulfilling happy lives. Based on our own experiences, we believe that everyone has the ability to change if given the proper structure and connection

Ryan Blivas & Evan Powell

Founders of Key Healthcare

Teen Art Therapy in Los Angeles, CA

Key Healthcare provides art therapy for teenagers as a part of our teen treatment programs. Teens will participate in our therapy groups for teens that utilize art therapy to treat their mental health condition(s).

In addition to our intensive outpatient and partial hospitalization programs, we also offer a residential treatment program for teens that provides a supportive and structured environment for adolescents facing mental health challenges. To learn more about our programs, contact us today.

It might feel like a big step, but remember why you're here—you’re looking for a way forward.

Frequently Asked Questions

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What is the purpose of the insurance verification form?

Our secure, HIPAA-compliant form helps you determine whether your health plan covers care at Key Healthcare. Once you submit it, our admissions team will review your benefits and personally walk you through your options—without sharing any information with your insurance provider.

What happens after I submit the form?

We’ll review your submission and contact you—typically within the hour—to go over your coverage details and the next steps in the process. Rest assured, we do not notify your insurance provider.

Why should I check my insurance?

Understanding your coverage makes planning easier. Most families find that their plan covers at least part of our programs. Even if it doesn’t, we’ll explore alternate options together.

How much will care cost with insurance?

Costs vary depending on your plan, the type of care needed, and treatment length. Our team will interpret your benefits for you and explain any potential out-of-pocket expenses so you’re never caught off guard.

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Is your teen struggling with mental health or substance use challenges?

Request a confidential call today – our team will walk you through the admissions process, treatment options, costs, and what to expect. Reaching out is a powerful first step toward a healthier future for your teen and your family.

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Insurances we Accept

Key Healthcare works with a majority of health insurance providers and depending on your plan, 100% of the costs may be covered. Verify your insurance to get more information about your coverage.

Get in touch with Key Healthcare

Get in touch with Key Healthcare to learn how our teen-focused mental health and addiction treatment programs can support your family. Our compassionate team is here to answer your questions, guide you through the admissions process, and help your teen take the first step toward lasting recovery.

If you are ready to get help for your child, we are here to help. Feel free to call us, email, or fill out our contact form to get started today. You can also verify your insurance to begin the process.

Check Insurance

Structure, support, and a path forward. See how programs at Key Healthcare help teens thrive.

Take the first step by verifying your insurance today and finding out what coverage options are available for your family. Our team will review your benefits and help you understand how to access the care your teen needs.

Medical Reviewer

Dr. Elnaz Mayeh PhD, LMFT

As Executive Director, Dr. Mayeh is dedicated to maintaining Key Healthcare’s reputation as a premier adolescent treatment center, fostering a stable and supportive environment for both clients and staff. Her leadership focuses on clinical integrity, staff development, and creating a culture of compassion and growth.