Mischa Barton is planning to kickstart her career by launching an album of her own folk songs. Friends claim the actress turned to music to help her get through her recent rehab stint, and she now wants to share her own compositions with the world.

A source tells the National Enquirer, "Making music is Mischa's therapy, and she's actually quite good. She spends her free time writing and banging out her songs on her acoustic guitar. Music has been a lifesaver for her and she's determined to emerge from her crisis with her own CD and an expanded career."

Barton is currently shooting new TV series A Beautiful Life in New York. In July, she was placed on psychological hold after reportedly suffering a meltdown at her Hollywood home.

See more photos of Mischa Barton here!

Image © Solarpix / PR Photos

(This news article provided by World Entertainment News Network)