Date of Award
Spring 5-2-2026
Document Type
Thesis
Degree Name
Master of Arts in Expressive Therapies
Major
Expressive Therapies
First Advisor
Dr. Raquel Chapin Stephenson
Abstract
The rapid expansion of virtual therapy following the COVID-19 pandemic has prompted art therapists to reconsider how creative processes can be facilitated through digital means. This capstone thesis explores how art therapy practices can evolve within virtual environments by exploring the video game The Sims 4 as a novel digital medium for virtual art therapy. A qualitative approach was used within an intensive outpatient program (IOP), including a preliminary peer session and two individual client sessions. The intervention involved therapist-facilitated gameplay, where the clinician acted as a “third hand,” guiding clients in an effort to support identity and values-based exploration.
Findings suggest The Sims 4 to be an accessible and inclusive tool for creative expression, reducing barriers related to artistic skill, cost, and physical access. The game also demonstrated potential as a medium for assessment and building rapport. Client engagement varied, and limitations related to setting, time constraints, and client acuity impacted implementation. This exploration highlights the promise of commercial video games being an effective form of digital art therapy while emphasizing the need for further research on clinical applications, population suitability, and directive development.
Creative Commons License
This work is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution-Noncommercial-No Derivative Works 4.0 License.
Recommended Citation
Wilber, Kathleen A., "Evolving Art Therapy in Virtual Environments: Exploring Telehealth Art Therapy Within Gaming" (2026). Expressive Therapies Theses. 125.
https://digitalcommons.lesley.edu/expressive_therapies_theses/125
