ABSTRACT
Chapter 2 considers how the arts therapies are defined and understood in different parts of the world. It explores many of the themes that can be found in most definitions: art forms are linked to approaches to healing, with some of the intended outcomes stated. The chapter takes an international perspective, examining how definitions try to meet the needs of finding common ground between different art forms and therapy. Definitions that have been developed by organisations and professionals who work across disciplines are considered, alongside those that work with specific disciplines such as art, music, drama and dance movement therapy. It also examines definitions in different contexts: how they try to serve an enormous range of health contexts and kinds of provision. The chapter explores international and national wide-ranging definitions as well as those developed by local services.
