ABSTRACT
Therapists conceptualize the beneficial actions and effects of creative expression in many different ways. The use of art in therapy has been characterized as helping challenge and change problematic thoughts and behaviors (Rosal, 2001; Steele, 2003). Art can illuminate difficulties and help children learn skills (Safran, 2003). Viewed from a psychoanalytic perspective, art can quickly and effectively bring unconscious conflicts to the surface and aid in their working through (Naumburg, 1966; Wilson, 1987). Jungian approaches to therapy employ artistic expression to help integrate feared or rejected archetypal contents and to eliminate complexes (Edwards, 1987; Wallace, 1987). Regardless of their theoretical orientation, all therapists have to choose the most appropriate art materials and expressive methods to use with each client. Art therapy students often ask for techniques with which to help their clients, but what is more important is a theoretical framework from which to choose appropriate materials and methods (Wadeson, 1980). The Expressive Therapies Continuum can guide these critical healing decisions.
