International Journal of Art Therapy: Inscape最新文献

{"title":"The page as place: how we enter into images as place","authors":"Zuleika Gregory","doi":"10.1080/17454832.2021.1995453","DOIUrl":"https://doi.org/10.1080/17454832.2021.1995453","url":null,"abstract":"ABSTRACT Background Entering into an image is a familiar yet undefined term. In this art-based, heuristic enquiry into how we enter into images as place, the author considers what meaning the concept of place has in art psychotherapy and how we explore and express our inner worlds through imagined places. Aims Spatial ideas and metaphors are routinely used in art psychotherapy to conceptualise internal landscapes and relational space. The author aims to provide a complementary enquiry into the phenomenon of place on the page, and how this is entered into. Method The research involved the creation of sixteen images partnered with reflective writing following spatial, locating, and sensory prompts. The author’s artmaking involved heuristic ‘self-dialogue’ on place, adopting a meditative frame of mind, creating two-dimensional artworks on paper and reflective writing. The dataset was analysed through response illustration and ‘revisiting’ via the prompt questions. Results Entering into was considered comparable to active imagination, dialoguing and suspension of disbelief. Themes of connection and solitude, expanse and enclosure and sensory experience illuminated the experiential nature of place and the page as a site of experience. Conclusions Entering into an image is shown to involve imaginatively engaging the senses and reflection on the felt sense. A place must exist to be entered into and it is found that imaginative experience creates that place. Implications for practice/policy/future research As an imaginative process, entering into has significance to art psychotherapy through the page experienced as place into the potential space. Plain-language summary Entering into an image is a familiar yet undefined term. The author enquires what it means to enter into an image as an imagined place on the page. This research uses art-making, self-inquiry, and personal reflection on the topics to answer this question. Art Psychotherapy uses metaphor and imagined places to describe how we explore and express our inner worlds and the relationship between psychotherapist and client. The author explores what this means if the page, and images on it, are a place. Sixteen images were created and reflected on by writing. Images, on paper, were made with the intention to explore the phenomenon of place, without specific plans for composition, so that themes and ideas could freely emerge from the self-inquiry and artmaking to inform the research. Themes from that process were chosen by looking again and further reflective writing and illustrations were made on those themes. Through this process the core themes were narrowed down and selected. Themes of connection and solitude, expanse and enclosure and the sensory experience were identified. This showed that place and space are linked to relationships and growth and that a place is somewhere we experience. When we imagine these experiences, both visually and in imagining our senses, we are entering into an imag","PeriodicalId":39969,"journal":{"name":"International Journal of Art Therapy: Inscape","volume":null,"pages":null},"PeriodicalIF":0.0,"publicationDate":"2021-11-19","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"43346443","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":0,"RegionCategory":"","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}

{"title":"OBAS-ATT: observation-based instrument for assessment in art therapy with traumatised women","authors":"Carolina Peral Jiménez","doi":"10.1080/17454832.2021.1998164","DOIUrl":"https://doi.org/10.1080/17454832.2021.1998164","url":null,"abstract":"ABSTRACT Background Art therapists need specific instruments to measure treatment outcomes. The development of assessment instruments for special purposes, such as measuring key elements of the therapeutic process, is a growing and important area of research. Standardised instruments can help to compare and contrast data, and this may contribute to the development of the discipline. Aims The aim of this research was to design a new, process-oriented instrument that can help art therapists assess the therapeutic progress of the treatment for women who have suffered traumatic experiences. The instrument was called Observation-based Assessment Art Therapy Trauma Tool (OBAS-ATT). Methods The preliminary design of the tool was based on observation instruments and the analysis of the psychological scales commonly used with the target group. The first version of the tool was submitted to a panel of experts as part of a Delphi study to reach consensus on the content of the tool. Then, a focus group was held to improve tool usefulness. Results The final result is a structured template composed of 50 items organised in 11 dimensions that helps to collect qualitative and quantitative data. Conclusions The designed tool is an interesting starting point for developing useful and standardised tools. Experts participating in the study highlighted the importance of combining qualitative and quantitative data. Implications for practice/policy/future research This tool can help art therapists gather organised information and evaluate the patient therapeutic process, which should improve practice in the field. Further research is required to determine inter-rater reliability and the psychometric properties of the scales. Plain-language summary This article proposes a new observation tool in the art therapy field that can help to assess the therapeutic progress of patients who have experienced traumatic situations. Research into art therapy assessment is a growing area of knowledge, as art therapists need tools designed specifically for art therapy. Tried and tested forms of assessment can help to demonstrate the effectiveness of art therapy. They can lead to art therapy being considered an optimal approach for trauma treatment. The designed tool is a template to help art therapists gather key information related to what happens during the art therapy session. The art therapist rates observation items expressed on a scale of 1–6 and has the option of adding observations. Two different groups of individuals with expertise in this field were consulted about the content of the tool. The Delphi method and focus group technique were used. Although further research is required to validate the tool, this instrument can help art therapists to organise information and assess therapeutic progress. Also, it is a potentially interesting starting point for developing effective assessment.","PeriodicalId":39969,"journal":{"name":"International Journal of Art Therapy: Inscape","volume":null,"pages":null},"PeriodicalIF":0.0,"publicationDate":"2021-11-19","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"48952154","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":0,"RegionCategory":"","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}

{"title":"Using neuroscience to explore creative media in art therapy: a systematic narrative review","authors":"Shireen Malik","doi":"10.1080/17454832.2021.1998165","DOIUrl":"https://doi.org/10.1080/17454832.2021.1998165","url":null,"abstract":"ABSTRACT Background Few studies have investigated brain responses to different art media. Investigations into brain processes during art making have highlighted important structures. Neuroimaging tools have been used to investigate activation of brain areas whilst artmaking, but not in a therapeutic setting. This review highlights recent advancements in this area and encourages researchers to be the first to apply this in the UK. Aim To understand how the principles of neuroscience are currently informing the literature to explain the effects of art media in art therapy practice. Methods Review of published peer-reviewed research between years 2000 and 2020 on neuroscience and art therapy. Results Findings were summarised into categories discussing psychological/neurobiological issues, art media, neuroimaging technology, and models posited. Forty-six studies were found; majority discussed the structure and function of the brain to explain art therapy processes. The Expressive Therapies Continuum (ETC) model theorised that media properties stimulate different levels of visual and cognitive processing. The novel Mobile Brain/Body Imaging (MoBI) neuroimaging technology may be used as a means of quantifying data. Conclusion Significant progress has been made in attempting to explain brain responses during the art therapy process. However empirical data is needed to prove theoretical models. The use of neuroimaging has started this process to lead research into evidence-based practice. Implications for practice/further research Evidencing the ground-breaking ETC model, using neuroimaging and MoBI technology is needed through close collaboration between transdisciplinary departments. Art therapists should be encouraged to use the ETC to inform art therapy assessment, planning and treatment. Plain-language summary Neuroscience is the study of the brain and its processes, and recently technology has been available to researchers to examine brain processes in detail. This systematic narrative review explores recent literature that uses the principles of neuroscience to investigate the effects of art therapy, with a specific interest in art media. A systematic narrative review is when the findings of the study rely on the use of words to summarise the data. Art media is an important part of art therapy, as it is through artistic expressions that the client communicates their inner troubles. Different art media has been shown to elicit different feelings and behavioural responses in clients. However, research showing brain responses to different art media is limited. This study highlights ways in which further research in this field can take place. Results show that significant advancements have already been made that identify important structures and functions of the brain accessed during art therapy. Important models which incorporate neuroscience principles and theorise the art therapy process are highlighted. A significant model is the Expressive Therap","PeriodicalId":39969,"journal":{"name":"International Journal of Art Therapy: Inscape","volume":null,"pages":null},"PeriodicalIF":0.0,"publicationDate":"2021-11-19","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"46538080","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":0,"RegionCategory":"","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}

{"title":"Creating an online arts journaling group for trans clients","authors":"Jessica B. Holder","doi":"10.1080/17454832.2021.1991966","DOIUrl":"https://doi.org/10.1080/17454832.2021.1991966","url":null,"abstract":"ABSTRACT Background Trans people experience high levels of depression, anxiety, and suicidal ideation and attempts, as well as poor experiences seeking mental health support. There is limited research into the experience and effectiveness of using Art Therapy with trans clients. Context This paper describes an Art Therapy group with trans clients. The group took place online due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Participants consented to have their images and experiences used in this practice paper. Approach Building on the work of Beaumont (2012. Art therapy for gender variant individuals: A compassion oriented approach. Canadian Art Therapy Association Journal, 25(2), 1–6. https://doi.org/10.1080/08322473.2012.11415565), and using a neurobiological understanding of Art Therapy, this paper theorises that Art Therapy strategies known to be effective with trauma survivors may also support clients experiencing gender dysphoria. Considering Beaumont’s model, a six-week online Art Therapy intervention using weekly focused themes was developed. A strong focus was given to creating group cohesion through co-creating a working alliance. Clients reflected together on artwork created through arts journaling between sessions. Outcomes Participant engagement was high. The intervention received consistently positive solicited and unsolicited feedback from clients. Limitations of this feedback are noted. Conclusion Trans clients reported that the use of an online arts journaling group approach facilitated a powerful sense of belonging created in the group and reflected through the artwork. Implications for research Research is needed to consider Art Therapy’s effectiveness in improving wellbeing for trans clients through creating a sense of belonging. Research could also consider whether clients experiencing gender dysphoria could be supported by Art Therapy approaches known to work well with traumatised clients. Plain-language summary Trans clients are likely to need support with their mental health due to experiencing high rates of depression, anxiety, and suicidal feelings. They are also likely to describe poor experiences of seeking out mental health support. This highlights the importance of developing appropriate, supportive Art Therapy interventions with this client group. This paper describes a six-week online Art Therapy group with trans clients. The group took place in the context of a charity programme to support improved mental health and wellbeing in the trans community. Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, the group took place online. The group used an arts journaling approach. Clients made artwork between sessions, and shared and reflected on what they had created as a group over Zoom. I describe the theoretical approach which led to the creation of the group, noting the lack of research into working with this client base. I also outline the perspectives considered when recreating the intervention online due to the COVID-19 pandemic. I describe the group’s on","PeriodicalId":39969,"journal":{"name":"International Journal of Art Therapy: Inscape","volume":null,"pages":null},"PeriodicalIF":0.0,"publicationDate":"2021-11-19","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"47780201","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":0,"RegionCategory":"","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}

{"title":"Integration","authors":"Rebekah Beaven","doi":"10.5325/j.ctv2057qpm.8","DOIUrl":"https://doi.org/10.5325/j.ctv2057qpm.8","url":null,"abstract":"During the first weeks of lockdown, I began producing one painting per day. My release of frustration due to isolation was influenced by the art therapy literature I was reading in preparation for my training starting later the same year. Fascinated by the concept of the integration of emotions, previously denied or partitioned in a separate part, my portraits depict my processing of this idea. Beginning with small pale figures, almost white in complexion, placed amid increasingly exciting and vibrant backgrounds; the figures become larger and larger on the page portraying a growing sense of self, the colour and texture integrating into the figure itself until I reached this intimate view into my thoughts and feelings expressed as this self portrait.","PeriodicalId":39969,"journal":{"name":"International Journal of Art Therapy: Inscape","volume":null,"pages":null},"PeriodicalIF":0.0,"publicationDate":"2021-11-08","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"45368846","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":0,"RegionCategory":"","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}

{"title":"Yellowed Blossoms","authors":"Ceinwen Birrell","doi":"10.1080/17454832.2021.1978222","DOIUrl":"https://doi.org/10.1080/17454832.2021.1978222","url":null,"abstract":"This painting was initially a more obvious depiction of my son and a wolf, which was an animal he identified very closely with when he was young. At the time I wanted to capture this important aspect of his identity in this work. As my son grew and his relationship with the wolf gradually became less important to his sense of self, I continued to work on the painting, adapting it over a number of years in a parallel process to his development. This work considers the powerful, vital passions and fantasies of childhood and how these adapt and fade as we age and grow. The oversized blossoms and vivid colours reflect the experience of looking through a child’s eyes, while the process of building up layers which distort the original image represent fading memories of a time when we experience unquestioning creative exploration.","PeriodicalId":39969,"journal":{"name":"International Journal of Art Therapy: Inscape","volume":null,"pages":null},"PeriodicalIF":0.0,"publicationDate":"2021-10-02","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"44016092","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":0,"RegionCategory":"","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}

{"title":"Art therapy as a river with many streams: I think our time has come","authors":"J. Czamanski-Cohen","doi":"10.1080/17454832.2021.1994810","DOIUrl":"https://doi.org/10.1080/17454832.2021.1994810","url":null,"abstract":"My body is still reverberating with aliveness and excitement from watching the launch of the healing arts and wellbeing initiative at the Metropolitan Museum of Art in NYC (https://youtu.be/H65tUKHILj8), which is a collaborative effort between the WHO, the UN, NYU, and other local and global partners. I am inspired that my lifelong career and passion are receiving such recognition. This event emphasises our need to understand that the arts belong to all, and our theories, practice and training programmes must develop to reflect these changing times, as well as be a part of creating the change. Reflective of this intention, this issue features papers from around the globe with diverse methodologies and theoretical backgrounds, engaging different populations. The cover art, by Ceinwen Birrell (2021), depicts her child’s development and the adaptations of fantasies as he grows; similarly our profession is developing to meet the needs of the individuals we work with, in an ever-changing world. We practice art therapy in a multitude of settings, developing theories that attempt to explain why what we do works, and are confident in our practice in a way that enables us to work from diverse theoretical standpoints. While conducting traditional efficacy studies is still important, we are also conducting research that addresses the power dynamics inherent in the therapeutic relationship, and approach practice as a creative co-exploration. One such example is a research paper that explores the experience of art therapists working in psychiatry (Holttum et al., 2021). The grounded theory approach enabled the authors to obtain an in-depth account, of the ways in which 18 art therapists in the UK experience their work. Aligned with the goal of grounded theory, this paper aims at developing theory and guidelines regarding work with individuals diagnosed with psychosis and emphasises the importance of obtaining supervision and further training. The authors call for developing a flexible approach to art therapy that relates to clients and meets them where they are. A major point is made for the importance of using artmaking for grounding, crucial in enabling safety and developing a relationship. The art therapist’s role of ‘swimming against the tide’ of the psychiatric establishment and being positioned in a fringe role that is not always understood is also discussed. As we keep our unique identities, that have their place both in the fringes as well as in mainstream, we need to learn how to talk about the work we do with each other, our students and trainees, and the multidisciplinary team members that we work with. This paper is a good example of how to do just that. While the abovementioned paper examined the experiences of art therapists working with a specific population, the following paper examines work in a particular space. Our profession was born in asylums and hospitals, then expanded to clinics and schools and is now practiced also in community space","PeriodicalId":39969,"journal":{"name":"International Journal of Art Therapy: Inscape","volume":null,"pages":null},"PeriodicalIF":0.0,"publicationDate":"2021-10-02","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"41267799","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":0,"RegionCategory":"","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}

{"title":"Towards a description of the elements of art therapy practice for trauma: a systematic review","authors":"H. Bowen-Salter, Ashley Whitehorn, R. Pritchard, J. Kernot, A. Baker, M. Posselt, Ella Price, Jade Jordan-Hall, K. Boshoff","doi":"10.1080/17454832.2021.1957959","DOIUrl":"https://doi.org/10.1080/17454832.2021.1957959","url":null,"abstract":"ABSTRACT Background Post-traumatic stress disorder is a debilitating mental health condition that can occur when individuals are exposed to traumatic situations [American Psychiatric Association. (2013). Trauma- and stressor-related disorders. In Diagnostic and statistical manual of mental disorders (DSM-5®). American Psychiatric Pub]. Art therapy has been growing in popularity and acceptance as a therapeutic intervention for trauma over the last 10 years [Nanda, U., Barbato Gaydos, H. L., Hathorn, K., & Watkins, N. (2010). Art and posttraumatic stress: A review of the empirical literature on the therapeutic implications of artwork for war veterans with posttraumatic stress disorder. Environment and Behavior, 42(3), 376–390. https://doi.org/10.1177/0013916510361874], however, there is a sparsity of rigorous, methodologically sound evidence supporting its use. One step towards developing rigorous effectiveness studies is to firstly consolidate an understanding of the elements of art therapy. Method A comprehensive systematic search of the literature was performed. Data was extracted to best understand the elements of art therapy using the elements articulated by Borrelli et al. (2005. A new tool to assess treatment fidelity and evaluation of treatment fidelity across 10 years of health behavior research. Journal of Consulting and Clinical Psychology, 73(5), 852. https://doi.org/10.1037/0022-006X.73.5.852) which include: Design, Training, Delivery, Receipt, and Enactment. The elements were mapped and narratively described. Findings A total of 44 studies met eligibility criteria and were included for data extraction and coding. Publications reported study design, treatment enactment, and treatment receipt; however, gaps were seen in the reporting of provider training and the delivery of treatment, prominently the lack of reported treatment delivery guidelines. Conclusion This study demonstrated that there is a lack of consistency in the reporting and use of practice guidelines regarding art therapy for trauma, which severely impacts the ability to determine best practice. However, considering that art therapy is focused on consumer exploration with therapist support, it is possible that the lack of guidelines is intentional, rather than incidental. Exploring practitioners’ intent around selection and use of practice guidelines is needed to better understand this phenomenon. Plain-language summary Post-traumatic stress disorder is a debilitating mental health condition that can occur when individuals are exposed to traumatic situations. Art therapy has been growing in popularity and acceptance as a therapeutic intervention for trauma over the last 10 years, however, there is still hesitation when considering art therapy as a valid treatment for trauma. Given that funding bodies and medical advisory institutions around the world are increasing their focus on trauma treatments that can demonstrate effectiveness, we need to have a better understanding o","PeriodicalId":39969,"journal":{"name":"International Journal of Art Therapy: Inscape","volume":null,"pages":null},"PeriodicalIF":0.0,"publicationDate":"2021-08-23","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"42537455","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":0,"RegionCategory":"","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}

{"title":"A process-outcome study of school-based art therapy","authors":"D. Regev","doi":"10.1080/17454832.2021.1957960","DOIUrl":"https://doi.org/10.1080/17454832.2021.1957960","url":null,"abstract":"ABSTRACT Background Only a few studies in the arts therapies in general and in the field of visual art therapy in particular have begun to address process variables and their relationship to outcome variables. Aim The present study thus aimed to contribute to this literature by examining the relationship between process variables and outcome variables in the school-based art therapy setting. Method The process-outcome relationship was examined in a school-based art therapy setting in a sample of 32 art therapists and 44 clients aged 7–13. Hypothesis 1 predicted that over the course of art therapy, client involvement and client productive behaviours would increase whereas resistance would decrease. Hypothesis 2 predicted that increases in client involvement and client productive behaviours and decreases in client resistance would be linked to decreases in behavioural problems. Results Both hypotheses were partially supported in that cognitive–behavioural exploration and emotional exploration differed significantly during therapy. In addition, there was a significant correlation between improvement in client involvement and cognitive–behavioural exploration and improvement in internalising problems. Conclusions The present study provides initial support for the claim that the processes in art therapy with children are more complex than is typically assumed for art therapy. For example, the results showed that an increase in resistance and a decrease in insight were associated with positive outcomes. Implications for practice The findings indicated that in the education system, cognitive–behavioural exploration is an important variable. Models such as the cognitive–behavioural approach thus may be useful in school-based art therapy. Plain-language summary Recent studies have attested to the positive impact of art therapy on children and adolescents. However, little is known about what happens during the process of therapy and how it can lead to a positive outcome. The present study examined the relationship between process variables and outcome variables in the school-based art therapy setting. For this purpose, it focused on two process variables. The first was the art therapist's assessment of the client's degree of involvement in therapy. The second process variable was the therapist's assessment of the client's productive behaviours as well as resistance to therapy. This assessment can shed light on the ways in which the client responds to the therapist's interventions. The outcome variable was Child Behaviour Checklist that is designed to evaluate changes in children's behaviour and functioning over time or before/after therapy. Thirty-two art therapists employed by the Israel Ministry of Education and 44 clients participated in the present study. At the beginning of the school year, each art therapist selected one or two of her clients, who were in grades 1–7. Consent was obtained from both the clients and their parents. Parents and teachers f","PeriodicalId":39969,"journal":{"name":"International Journal of Art Therapy: Inscape","volume":null,"pages":null},"PeriodicalIF":0.0,"publicationDate":"2021-08-23","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"49149693","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":0,"RegionCategory":"","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}

{"title":"Trauma Treatment through Art Therapy (TT-AT): a ‘women and trauma’ group in Tanzania","authors":"P. Luzzatto, A. Ndagabwene, E. Fugusa, G. Kimathy, I. Lema, S. Likindikoki","doi":"10.1080/17454832.2021.1957958","DOIUrl":"https://doi.org/10.1080/17454832.2021.1957958","url":null,"abstract":"ABSTRACT Background In low–middle income countries the number of patients suffering from PTSD (from adult onset trauma) and from complex-PTSD (who have suffered from childhood emotional, physical and sexual abuse, deprivation and domestic violence) is high, but there is a shortage of clinical psychologists. The International Society for Traumatic Stress Studies (ISTSS) has recommended the development of innovative interventions. Context At Muhimbili University of Health and Allied Sciences (MUHAS), Dar es Salaam, Tanzania, a number of mental health professionals have been trained in providing Art Therapy as an ‘additional skill’ within their respective professions. In the Department of Psychiatry we have developed a protocol for a short-term Trauma Treatment with Art Therapy (TT-AT). Approach Our intervention is focused on the six patients’ needs outlined by ISTSS in the following areas: Emotion Regulation; Relationships; Self-Identity; Gradual Exposure to Trauma; Integration of Trauma; Personal Resources. We have developed six Art Therapy workshops aimed to address each one of these needs. The approach is supportive and non-interpretative. Outcomes The intervention was developed at Muhimbili National Hospital with a ‘Women’s Group’ of four patients, who had experienced different types of trauma. All patients attended regularly and reported improvements to their trauma symptoms. Conclusion This short-term art therapy intervention was useful with this population, and may be applicable to patients who suffer from a broad range of traumatic experience. Implication for research The protocol is described in detail, and can easily be replicated for clinical purposes and research. Plain-language summary There is a need for innovative interventions in the field of trauma, especially when the trauma was experienced during childhood (loss, abuse, deprivation and domestic violence). The task force of the International Society for Traumatic Stress Studies have encouraged the development of innovative interventions, recommending that new interventions are focused on patients’ needs rather than on trauma exposure, and should include emotional strengthening interventions. Six psychological needs were outlined by the International Society for Traumatic Stress Studies in the following areas: emotion regulation; relationships; self-identity/self-esteem; gradual exposure to the trauma; integration of the trauma in one’s life; and personal resources. At Muhimbili University of Health and Allied Sciences, in Dar es Salaam, Tanzania, we developed a Group Art Therapy intervention protocol, which was based on six art therapy workshops, plus time for free art making. The intervention was carried out with a group of four female patients who had all experienced different types of trauma, and began with three strengthening workshops: Filling the body outline, to facilitate the safe expression of emotions; A memory of a positive relationship in childhood, to remember positiv","PeriodicalId":39969,"journal":{"name":"International Journal of Art Therapy: Inscape","volume":null,"pages":null},"PeriodicalIF":0.0,"publicationDate":"2021-08-12","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"46564647","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":0,"RegionCategory":"","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}