A Relational approach to art therapy. (March 2020)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Gerlitz, Yael; Regev, Dafna; Snir, Sharon
• Is Part Of: Arts in psychotherapy. Volume 68(2019)
• Publication Date: 2020-03
• Subjects: Relational approach -- Art therapy -- Theoretical framework -- Two-person psychology -- Qualitative research; Art therapy -- Periodicals; Dance therapy -- Periodicals; Music therapy -- Periodicals; Poetry -- Therapeutic use -- Periodicals; 616.891656
• DOI: 10.1016/j.aip.2020.101644
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 0197-4556

Abstract

Highlights: Four art therapists were asked how they implement Relational psychoanalytic theory. Each therapist was interviewed once a month for five months. Data was analyzed using interpretative phenomenological analysis. This study suggests the Relational approach as a new theoretical framework to art therapy. Abstract: In psychotherapy of any kind, theory is an important basis for clinical practice but also evolves from it. Art therapists and other psychotherapists who use art materials need a theoretical framework to help them understand and conceptualize what happens in therapy. The Relational approach has never been presented as a theoretical framework for art therapy. Here, interviews were conducted with four art therapists who use this approach. Interpretative phenomenological analysis revealed how Relational principles manifest in art therapy and the challenges that arise when implementing this approach. Practical implications and the relationship between the therapist's personality and his or her theoretical affiliation are discussed.