ABSTRACT

Using extensive examples from practice with a range of client groups, Dramatherapy and Autism confronts the assumption that people with autism are not able to function within the metaphorical realms of the imagination and creativity. It demonstrates that not only are people who function along the spectrum capable of engaging in creative exploration, but that through encountering these processes in the clinical context of dramatherapy, changes can be made that are life enhancing.

Bringing in cutting-edge research and practice on dramatherapy, Dramatherapy and Autism aims to contribute to developing the theory and practice of creative arts therapies interventions with clients with autism. The book is part of the Dramatherapy: approaches, relationships, critical ideas series, in which leading practitioners and researchers in the field develop the knowledge base of this unique discipline, whilst contextualising and acknowledging its relationship with other arts and therapeutic practices.

Dramatherapy and Autism will be of interest to a broad spectrum of readers, such as dramatherapists in practice and training, arts practitioners and academic researchers engaged in multidisciplinary enquiry.

 

 

chapter 1|3 pages

Introduction

chapter 3|13 pages

Entering Colourland

Working with metaphor with high-functioning autistic children

chapter 5|12 pages

Dramatherapy, autism and metaphor

Meeting The Silky Stranger

chapter 6|13 pages

Supporting agency, choice making and the expression of ‘voice' with Kate

Dramatherapy in a mainstream primary school setting with a 9-year-old girl diagnosed with ASD and ADHD

chapter 7|15 pages

Becoming visible

Identifying and empowering girls on the autistic spectrum through dramatherapy

chapter 8|12 pages

Introversion, mindfulness and dramatherapy

Working with young people with autism

chapter 9|13 pages

Mother, son and then some

On autism, dramatic reality and relationship

chapter 10|15 pages

Being men

Men, Asperger's and dramatherapy

chapter 11|16 pages

‘Remember me'

Dramatherapy with adults who have autism and complex needs and are non-verbal