Art Therapy as a Tool in Trauma Treatment – Level II
Art Therapy has long been accepted as a treatment modality in working with trauma survivors from childhood through adulthood. The use of non-verbal creative techniques enhances the trauma survivor’s ability to express what is too painful to put into words and what has been stored as images on a non-verbal sensory/somatic level, both conscious and repressed. In this workshop, we will define art therapy and process the guidelines for using art therapy appropriately. We will explore the impact that trauma has on our clients including: sensory memories, affect dysregulation, polarized behaviors and cognitive distortions. We will then discuss how art allows memories to emerge through creative media, offering a safe and protective containment and lending a voice to silent victims. Participants will learn how art can be used as a tool to facilitate assessment and the “telling” and re-framing of trauma narrative. Clinicians will also learn how to use art therapy throughout the recovery process to create safe places and protective containers, address body image, enhance emotional vocabulary, and address sensory memory.
As we use art as a tool in trauma therapy, we will utilize a strength-based theoretical model which emphasizes client resiliency. Rather than relying on indicators or therapist interpretation, clinicians will learn how to ask the right questions to guide the client’s own interpretation of their art. Slides of patients’ artwork will be used to illustrate trauma case histories and help participants gain an understanding of art interventions. Participants will have ample opportunity to engage in art experientials which will teach both technical use of basic art media and effective art techniques for trauma treatment. Non-art therapists will increase their comfort level in knowing how to appropriately incorporate art therapy techniques into their ongoing work with traumatized clients.
Learning Objectives:
- Learn basic art therapy theory and concepts as they relate to trauma treatment. Identify ethical and practical guidelines for non-art therapists.
- Describe the technical use of art media on a therapeutic continuum. Describe art process and art product.
- Identify at least 12 ways in which trauma impacts survivors on a physical/somatic, emotional, cognitive and behavioral level.
- Identify at least 10 art therapy techniques that are effective interventions with trauma survivors.
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