Art therapy for autistic adults against depression: A multi-perspective study

Purpose Building on the socio-ecological model of health, this study investigates the barriers to delivering and accessing art therapy for autistic adults with depression, drawing on insights from both art therapists and autistic adults. Methods Through a mixed-methods online questionnaire, participants responded to closed-ended questions that asked about their experiences and/or perceptions of art therapy, attitudes towards art therapy, and the extent to which they identified with barriers reported in past literature. Open-ended questions followed to uncover lived experiences that might speak to barriers specific to art therapy not captured by past literature. Results Overall, both groups believed art therapy to be an effective treatment. Barriers identified by both groups primarily reflected systemic challenges, while other barriers highlighted stakeholders’ unique experiences and perspectives about treatment. Thematic analysis revealed similar and additional multidimensional barriers to delivering and accessing art therapy. Participants highlighted barriers associated with 1) accessibility (i.e. affordability, availability, and simplicity); 2) professional practice (i.e. autism knowledge, concurrent diagnoses, familial support, integrated care, and relationship building); and 3) making the experience individualised (i.e. with the right approach, environment, and emotional support). Conclusion This is one of the first studies to systematically report and analyse art therapy experiences on autism and depression. Lived experiences highlight that barriers across different levels of the socio-ecological model interact dynamically and influence the interactions between different stakeholders. Future interventions should leverage on influencing these interactions to support overall accessibility and effectiveness of art therapy.