Common symptoms reported by cancer patients include pain, fatigue, breathlessness, insomnia, lack of appetite, and anxiety. A study conducted by an interdisciplinary research team (Nainis et al., 2006) demonstrated statistically significant reductions in these cancer symptoms with the use of traditional art therapy methods. The study found a strong correlation between the use of art therapy and a significant decrease in tiredness and anxiety. This paper reflects on the author's participation as the art therapist who conducted the art therapy interventions used in the study. It considers approaches to art therapy interventions for cancer survivors and their particular needs relative to the creative process and symptom management. The paper also discusses the question of why some cancer patients refuse art therapy when it is offered to them on the inpatient unit. (Contains 1 table and 3 figures.)