Preliminary modelling for strategic planning in art therapy research: A multi-phase sequential mixed methods study

In the absence of a systematic research agenda in the field of art therapy the aim of this project was to conduct a multi-phase sequential mixed methods study. The first phase involved conducting a scoping review of publications and conference presentations to determine current research trends. The findings of the scoping review were used to initiate the second phase– the construction of a survey. The survey was disseminated to art therapists internationally and the results were used partially to generate a focus group interview protocol. The focus group was convened to explore questions from the survey requiring more in-depth examination. The integrative analysis of the data in these first two phases assisted in the development of several preliminary recommendations for identifying philosophies, methodologies, and evidence-informed practices that will advance the generation of art therapy knowledge and aid in the development of a strategic plan.