Exploring the Effects of Adaptive Art Therapy on the Mood of Adults with Physical Disabilities
Faculty Mentor Information
Arielle Horan, University of Idaho
Presentation Date
7-2025
Abstract
People with physical disabilities face elevated risks of psychological distress, yet they remain underrepresented in psychotherapy research. This study examines the potential of adaptive art therapy to enhance mood in adults with physical disabilities. Art therapy, by design, is diverse and can be used with many forms of media, making it an accessible modality for individuals with varying mobility and sensory needs. This qualitative study explores how adults with physical disabilities experience adaptive art therapy, with particular attention to emotional responses before and after participation. Art therapy offers flexibility in media and process, making it an accessible and expressive modality for individuals with diverse mobility and sensory needs. Participants will take part in an adaptive art therapy session led by a licensed art therapist and will be provided with accessible tools and emotional support.
To explore emotional changes and personal meaning, Participants will complete brief pre- and post-session interviews, supplemented by the Profile of Mood States (POMS) questionnaire as a reflective tool. Thematic analysis will be used to identify patterns across participant experiences, focusing on perceived emotional shifts. This research aims to amplify disabled voices in mental health research and evaluate the feasibility of adaptive art therapy as a healing tool for this understudied community. The findings may inform more inclusive approaches to psychotherapy and support the development of accessible mental health interventions.
Exploring the Effects of Adaptive Art Therapy on the Mood of Adults with Physical Disabilities
People with physical disabilities face elevated risks of psychological distress, yet they remain underrepresented in psychotherapy research. This study examines the potential of adaptive art therapy to enhance mood in adults with physical disabilities. Art therapy, by design, is diverse and can be used with many forms of media, making it an accessible modality for individuals with varying mobility and sensory needs. This qualitative study explores how adults with physical disabilities experience adaptive art therapy, with particular attention to emotional responses before and after participation. Art therapy offers flexibility in media and process, making it an accessible and expressive modality for individuals with diverse mobility and sensory needs. Participants will take part in an adaptive art therapy session led by a licensed art therapist and will be provided with accessible tools and emotional support.
To explore emotional changes and personal meaning, Participants will complete brief pre- and post-session interviews, supplemented by the Profile of Mood States (POMS) questionnaire as a reflective tool. Thematic analysis will be used to identify patterns across participant experiences, focusing on perceived emotional shifts. This research aims to amplify disabled voices in mental health research and evaluate the feasibility of adaptive art therapy as a healing tool for this understudied community. The findings may inform more inclusive approaches to psychotherapy and support the development of accessible mental health interventions.