ABSTRACT
This chapter provides the functions of response art and show how—amid its positive contributions—ethically problematic practices can emerge within the context of the therapeutic relationship or in supervision, focuses on its impact on the training and formation of new therapists. Therapist art making, both in-session or related to clinical work such as in supervision, has become known as response art. High levels of anxiety and fluctuating self-confidence are present during the transition to becoming a therapist, especially as client contact progresses. One key element in therapist development has been identified as the building of a reservoir of internalised experience. Ray was on placement in a palliative care ward of a major public hospital where, patients were often restricted by their limited physical capacities and powerful emotional responses. As art therapists, making art may seem to be the legitimate response; it can answer the question of competence, coping, and being seen to manage well, especially as trainee therapists.
