ABSTRACT

A growing number of art therapists are also trained in group analytic psychotherapy. This book explores the new theories and models for practice arising from the merging of these two disciplines.
Contributors ask whether a model can be applied universally to art therapy group work with diverse client groups. They present in-depth case studies looking at work with the following:-
* children
* drug and alcohol abusers
* forensic patients
* patients on acute psychiatric wards
* the cognitively-impaired elderly
* institutionalised patients moving into the community
A common theme which emerges is that the physical use of art materials and the space of the art room offer a possibility for communication of feelings which is not possible in purely verbal groups. This allows clients who would not normally be considered for group therapy to benefit from a psychodynamic group process.

chapter 1|16 pages

Introduction

chapter 2|27 pages

Dissonance and harmony

Theoretical issues in art psychotherapy groups

chapter 4|19 pages

Connection and disconnection in the art therapy group

Working with forensic patients in acute states on a locked ward

chapter 5|21 pages

Return to the open studio group

Art therapy groups in acute psychiatry

chapter 6|24 pages

Candles slowly burning

chapter 7|23 pages

The Magpie's eye

Patients' resistance to engagement in an art therapy group for drug and alcohol patients

chapter 8|25 pages

Long-stay art therapy groups