Art therapists' experiences of countertransference with clients with intellectual disabilities

IF 1.5 3区心理学 Q3 PSYCHOLOGY, CLINICAL

Arts in Psychotherapy Pub Date : 2025-04-01 DOI:10.1016/j.aip.2025.102294

Shir Harpazi , Sharon Snir , Dafna Regev , Chen Moisa

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Abstract

Objective

This study examined art therapists' countertransference experiences when working with clients with intellectual disabilities.

Method

A mixed methods design was used, involving process diaries, RAP (Relational Anecdotes Paradigm) interviews, and the Therapist Response Questionnaire (TRQ). Seven art therapists working with clients with mild to moderate intellectual disabilities provided data from nine treatments.

Findings

Four primary countertransference themes emerged: Parental/Protective, Helplessness/Ambivalence, Joy/Satisfaction, and Compassion/Sadness. The Parental/Protective theme was the most frequent. The theme of Helplessness/Ambivalence reflected doubts and professional dilemmas. Joy/Satisfaction was reported to emerge from successful interactions, whereas Compassion/Sadness was tied to clients' struggles.

Conclusion

The findings highlight the complex and multifaceted nature of countertransference in art therapists working with clients with intellectual disabilities. These countertransference reactions, encompassing both positive and negative emotions, play a crucial role in the therapeutic relationship. It is suggested that by acknowledging and constructively engaging with these reactions, therapists can foster stronger therapeutic relationships.

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来源期刊

Arts in Psychotherapy Multiple-

CiteScore

3.20

自引率

11.10%

发文量

期刊介绍： The Arts in Psychotherapy is a dynamic, contemporary journal publishing evidence-based research, expert opinion, theoretical positions, and case material on a wide range of topics intersecting the fields of mental health and creative arts therapies. It is an international peer-reviewed journal publishing 5 issues annually. Papers are welcomed from researchers and practitioners in the fields of art, dance/movement, drama, music, and poetry psychotherapy, as well as expressive and creative arts therapy, neuroscience, psychiatry, education, allied health, and psychology that aim to engage high level theoretical concepts with the rigor of professional practice. The journal welcomes contributions that present new and emergent knowledge about the role of the arts in healthcare, and engage a critical discourse relevant to an international readership that can inform the development of new services and the refinement of existing policies and practices. There is no restriction on research methods and review papers are welcome. From time to time the journal publishes special issues on topics warranting a distinctive focus relevant to the stated goals and scope of the publication.