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Edith Kramer, a pioneer in art therapy, advocated for art as therapy rather than art psychotherapy. She believed in the intrinsic healing process of the creative act itself and its power to enhance the individual's coping mechanisms.

Art therapy began to develop in the United Kingdom following World War II, leading to the formation of the British Association of Art Therapists (BAAT) in 1964. The BAAT advanced the professional practice of art therapy in the UK.

Canada saw the emergence of art therapy in the 1970s and the subsequent establishment of the Canadian Art Therapy Association (CATA) in 1977, which facilitated the growth and standards of the profession in the country.

Recent advancements in art therapy have included the incorporation of multicultural and social justice approaches, recognizing the diverse backgrounds and societal influences of clients in therapeutic practice.

The 21st century has seen a surge in interest linking art therapy with neuroscience, studying how art-making impacts brain function and can be used for healing in neurological disorders.

From the late 20th century onwards, art therapy has become an international practice, with professional organizations worldwide promoting and developing the profession across different cultures and countries.

In 1942, British artist Adrian Hill, while recovering from tuberculosis, discovered the therapeutic benefits of drawing and painting. He coined the term 'Art Therapy' to describe the positive and calming effects of art on people with illness or stress.

Expressive arts therapy, which includes art therapy, but is not limited to it, incorporates a variety of creative arts practices in therapy. Its growth reflects an interdisciplinary approach to therapeutic practices.

In the 1990s, art therapy was increasingly recognized for its benefits in working with children with autism, providing them with a non-verbal medium of expression and communication.

With the rise of technology, digital art therapy has emerged, utilizing digital media and platforms to conduct therapy sessions, thereby expanding the reach to clients who may have barriers to traditional therapy settings.

Margaret Naumburg, known as the 'Mother of Art Therapy,' emphasized the importance of art creation as a way for clients to express their subconscious thoughts and feelings. She founded the Walden School in New York, and her approach focused on the symbolic communication of imagery.

Art therapy began to take shape in the 1940s, as psychiatrists started noticing the beneficial effects that creating art had on patients with mental illnesses. It revealed aspects of the patients' personalities, emotions, and thoughts. It laid the groundwork for art therapy as a distinct form of psychotherapy.

The early 1970s saw the establishment of the first master's degree programs in art therapy, further legitimizing the field as a specialized form of therapy and attracting more professionals to the field.

Art therapy has been recognized for its effectiveness with military veterans, particularly in addressing post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and other mental health issues associated with combat and military service.