ABSTRACT

Facilitating expression goes on from the moment the patient has started to work until he is finished. And from the time of getting started, to doing all along the way, to deciding when to stop, a patient may be more or less independent. Those who can function well and creatively on their own need to have their autonomy, working space, and time respected by lack of intrusion. In this regard, it appears that some art therapists don't feel that they are doing their jobs if they are simply sitting and quietly observing the patient. But if they can learn to be comfortable on their observational toes, there is a great deal to be gained from watching facial expressions, body language, and the sequence in which things are created.