Discovering good practice for art therapy with children who have Autism Spectrum Disorder: The results of a small scale survey

The purpose of this study was to develop a clearer understanding of how art therapists currently practice with children who have ASD. A convenience sample of participants was chosen from established and emerging art therapy practitioners in the United States. Perspectives from were gathered via survey from 14 art therapists. These were analyzed following consensual qualitative research guidelines. From this process of analysis the following domains of importance were identified: art therapists' level of experience and scope, unique aspects of using art therapy with children who have ASD, preferred choice of art materials for children with ASD, primary aims when using art therapy for children with ASD, and preferred theoretical approaches and their practical application. These findings were further distilled into practical guidelines to follow in art therapy provision with children who have ASD. This is a first step towards aiding the expansion of the current evidence-base to support provision of art therapy as a routine form of treatment for ASD. As the field continues to develop, further investigation is needed as to the effectiveness of art therapy to address cognitive, emotional, behavioral, and physical needs for children who have ASD.