When a client is asked to draw a landscape and merely scribbles, what action should the art therapist take?

• A. Press for a description of the drawing
• B. Thank him for coming to group and making the drawing
• C. Ask him to draw again
• D. Ignore it

Answer: (B)

Validation and a nonjudgmental stance are the key ideas here. When a client is asked to draw a landscape and only scribbles, the best move is to thank him for coming to group and for making the drawing. This acknowledges his participation, respects his pace, and helps build trust without pressuring him to reveal meaning he isn’t ready to share. In art therapy, the act of creating can be meaningful even if the result is a scribble, and offering positive reinforcement invites further engagement when he’s ready. Pressing for a description, asking him to draw again, or ignoring the effort can create pressure or dismiss the moment, which can hinder rapport and progress.