Introduction

This introduction presents an overview of the key concepts covered in the subsequent chapters of this book. The book encompasses the foundation of art therapy in the military, including sections on what differentiates the military from other settings and the theoretical underpinnings of the ground breaking treatment. It includes work from the Walter Reed Army Medical Center (WRAMC) and the Veterans' Administration (VA). The book also encompasses those working in military hospital or outpatient military settings, in trauma clinics, or in private practice. It also discusses the difficult topic of suicide. The book includes integrative approaches to treating post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and traumatic brain injury (TBI). It also describes in detail the Giant Steps Program. The book also examines about treating substance abuse and co-occurring disorders. It also addresses the studio setting as a treatment approach for returning veterans to assist in their reintegration into civilian life.