The aim of this systematic review was to commence a bridge between what art therapists know and what they do in supporting those with mental health issues. The review process involved looking at the existing research between 1994-2014 to examine which art therapy approaches were being applied when working with people who have mental health issues, as well as to identify how art therapy approaches were used within the clinical mental health system. The selection criteria process identified 30 articles that demonstrated an art therapy approach to a particular mental health issue. Using this strategy resulted in articles being grouped into four diagnostic terms that were: depression, borderline personality disorder, schizophrenia, and post-traumatic stress disorder. A synthesis of the identified articles resulted in the identification of research areas necessitating advancement. Future studies could incorporate more details on the art therapy approaches used to enhance transferability of practice. Moreover, adding art therapists’ critique about the art therapy approach from their applied perspective, would assist in the development of evidence-based practice that is not just current, but feasible, too. Finally, the client voice needs to be incorporated in future studies to address questions of client expectations and perceived success of art therapy.