What is Arts psychotherapy ?
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A psychotherapeutic approach enriched by the possibility to use the arts to express oneselfThe session starts in a traditional verbal relational model.
Whenever the client addresses an issue in a way which could be enhanced by the use of art, the therapist suggests an art medium to the client, who always has the choice to experiment with it or to carry on the verbal exchange instead. The benefits of offering this metaphorical way of expressing oneself are mainly to help overcoming the risk of using one’s intellect as a defence mechanism against uncomfortable feelings. By distancing oneself from linear usual perceptions, the client has a chance to contemplate his life and situation in different ways, to “think outside the box”. It usually helps putting feelings and sensations to the fore rather than letting one’s intellect lead the way. |
The approach is referred to as « integrative » because it is based on a range of psychotherapeutic tools borrowed from the humanistic, psychoanalytical and neuroscientific approaches, integrated within a solid standpoint from the humanistic framework emphasizing the importance of the therapist-client relationship and "working alliance".
Playful looking devices to access deeper truthsThe use of the arts brings a light touch to what is actually in-depth work.
Paradoxically, resorting to metaphor facilitates work on disturbing and painful subjects. It may bring a layer of gentleness which alleviates the client’s discomfort. What would otherwise be avoided can be addressed to help the client gain awareness, thus accessing a place of true choice rather than automatic dysfunctional patterns. |
A multi-sensory approach for in-depth work
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University recognition
Integrative Arts Psychotherapy is taught in IATE (The Institute for Arts in Therapy and Education) in partnership with East London University preparing students to graduate with a Master of Arts (MA) in Integrative Arts Psychotherapy.