ABSTRACT
In forensic settings, where the unpredictable can happen, therapists’ identities need to become fluid, with the ability to constantly shift and adjust; unfortunately, as a result, it is sometimes difficult to remember who we are and what we are expected to do. Our identity as a clinician can be established by the institution or changed suddenly by an inconceivable event. How we are perceived can help determine the effectiveness of the services we offer, and how we address these fluctuating labels is vital to the clients’ healing process and to our own well-being. Recognizing the systemic obstacles and potential identities arising from such interactions can prepare the therapist to be proactively effective. The best weapon we have in combating these constraints and restraints is our own creativity. This chapter, through personal experiences and narratives collected from art therapists around the country, examines how such challenges have presented themselves and yet how, as art therapists, tools are available to overcome such trials.
