Glossary / Lexicon

Diagnostic drawing series (DDS) refers to an art therapy assessment tool developed by Cohen, a practicing art therapist. It is a diagnostic tool which combines the research orientation of psychology with art therapy's attention to materials, process, and individuality. Soft chalk pastels and 18" X 24" white drawing paper with a slight tooth are given to the client on a flat drawing surface. The client is given up to fifteen minutes to complete three drawing directives carefully crafted by the creators of the assessment to elicit information in a single brief session