Examining the implementation level of art therapy as an intervention for students with psychological problems in colleges and universities in China

In recent years, art therapy has been increasingly recognized as a valuable approach for addressing mental health challenges among college students. Despite its documented benefits—such as promoting emotional regulation, fostering resilience, and alleviating symptoms of anxiety and depression—its level of implementation within Chinese higher education remains unclear. This study aims to assess the extent to which art therapy is integrated into colleges and universities in China as a mental health intervention for students with psychological problems, and to identify areas for improvement.Adopting a quantitative descriptive research design, data were collected through a validated questionnaire administered online to 85 teachers and counselors from five selected institutions: South China Business College (SCBC), Guangdong Medical University (GMU), Beijing Normal University (BNU), Central Conservatory of Music (CCOM), and Shanghai Conservatory of Music (SHCM). Using proportionate stratified sampling, responses were analyzed with descriptive statistics (mean, standard deviation, frequency, percentage) and inferential tests (t-test, ANOVA) to determine implementation levels and potential variations across demographic and institutional profiles.The results revealed a composite mean score of 3.33 (SD = 0.85), indicating an average level of implementation . While institutions generally have trained art therapists, designated spaces for sessions, and some integration of mindfulness practices, limitations were identified in therapist-to-student ratios, diversity of art materials, and sustained community collaborations. Privacy during sessions and flexibility in scheduling were also inconsistent. No statistically significant differences were found in implementation levels based on gender of respondents or across the five institutions, suggesting systemic rather than localized challenges.These findings underscore the need for targeted interventions to elevate art therapy from a moderately implemented support service to a fully integrated component of campus mental health programs. Recommendations include expanding training opportunities for art therapists, improving resource allocation, reducing stigma through awareness campaigns, and fostering collaborative networks among institutions to share best practices. Strengthening the implementation of art therapy has the potential to significantly enhance the psychological well-being, academic performance, and overall life satisfaction of Chinese college students.