Technology-Integrated Art Therapy: Scoping Review of Outcomes and Processes
Year: 2026
Type: article
Abstract: Background The rapid integration of digital technologies into art therapy reflects both technological advances and the growing need for flexible, accessible mental health care. Objective This scoping review aimed to systematically map and synthesize empirical research in English on technology-integrated art therapy published from 2016 to August 2026. Methods A comprehensive search across 9 electronic sources yielded 697 records, of which 47 empirical studies met the inclusion criteria according to PRISMA-ScR (Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses extension for Scoping Reviews) guidelines. Results The included studies were methodologically heterogeneous, comprising qualitative (n=19, 40.4%), quantitative (n=12, 25.5%), and mixed methods (n=16, 34%) designs, and were largely characterized by small samples and exploratory or feasibility-oriented approaches. Among the quantitative and mixed methods studies, 9 used randomized controlled or randomized experimental designs, while the remainder used nonrandomized or other designs. Reported quantitative outcomes included improvements in cognitive functioning, emotional regulation, mental health, behavioral symptoms, and functional outcomes; however, evidence for clinical effectiveness remained limited and heterogeneous. Qualitative and mixed methods studies reported potential benefits related to engagement, reduced performance-related anxiety, agency, emotional expression, and creative exploration. Digital affordances such as editing, layering, and multimodal creation were associated with iterative meaning-making and expanded expressive possibilities. In immersive contexts, particularly virtual reality, participants described altered sensory and embodied experiences. At the same time, technology raises concerns regarding privacy, data security, boundaries and setting, and the potential impact on the therapeutic relationship. Conclusions Technology-integrated art therapy appears to offer promising possibilities for expanding access, engagement, expression, and therapeutic experience, but the current evidence remains too limited and heterogeneous to establish clinical effectiveness or mechanisms of change.
Source: JMIR Mental Health
DOI: 10.2196/102164
Language: English
Subfield: Clinical Psychology
Field: Psychology
Domain: Social Sciences
Open Access status: gold
Estimated APC paid: $2,750
OpenAlex ID: W7225654738