Art Therapy and Autism: Overview and Recommendations

Abstract Work with individuals diagnosed with autism spectrum disorders (ASD) is a growing area of significant interest for many art therapists. The purpose of this viewpoint is to outline the current impediments to the expansion of this specialty as well as to highlight the unique treatment advantages of art therapy from the author's perspectives as an art therapist and sibling of a person with autism. A rationale for the use of art therapy to treat ASD and recommendations are provided.