Journal of Clinical Art Therapy

Signs and Symbols: Art and Language in Art Therapy

Malissa Morrell — Tue, 19 Apr 2011 11:49:57 PDT

This paper is a preliminary attempt at theory building by exploring the use of art and language in art therapy through a theoretical inquiry model. Inductive and deductive processes are used to explore literature from the fields of psychology, art philosophy (particularly aesthetics), and linguistics. Concepts common to each of these disciplines are then further explored through the lens of bilingual therapy. Practical applications are discussed, along with suggestions for future research.

An Art Therapy Domestic Violence Prevention Group in Mexico

Naomi Tucker et al. — Tue, 19 Apr 2011 11:49:54 PDT

This paper explores the implementation, course of treatment, achievements and limitations of an art therapy domestic violence prevention group in Mexico. The group was part of a Mexican pilot program utilizing a solution-focused model developed by Stith, McCollum, and Rosen (2007) in the U.S. The art therapy group served Otomí clients, who are members of a unique indigenous sub-culture within Mexican society. A brief literature review discusses domestic violence, solution-focused treatment, couples groups, and the particular complexities of working inter-culturally. The course of treatment is presented and the achievements and limitations of the program are briefly evaluated within the context of cultural and societal factors. Art making as a culturally sensitive facilitator of treatment is discussed. Challenges associated with language, poverty, and health are considered in terms of clients’ ability to complete the program and maximize its effectiveness.

Understanding Client Imagery in Art Therapy

Erica K.M. Curtis — Tue, 19 Apr 2011 11:49:52 PDT

This study offers a preliminary investigation into the question: How do art therapists make meaning from viewing client-made art? Art therapy literature on making meaning from client art is reviewed. The Visual Thinking Strategies (VTS) model used in art education and museum education is also briefly discussed for its parallels to this study’s findings. An adapted form of grounded theory for data collection and analysis was used, leading to emergent themes that suggest that understanding client art requires more than analyzing content and aesthetic elements. More specifically, this inquiry offers the consideration that viewing client art is a dynamic practice that can be described by three processes: cyclical, relational, and personal.

Brief Report: 30th Anniversary Survey Results

Paige Asawa — Tue, 19 Apr 2011 11:49:50 PDT

GUEST EDITORIAL: Memories of Helen Landgarten and About Art Therapy Research

Maxine Borowsky Junge — Tue, 19 Apr 2011 11:49:48 PDT

Consulting Editorial

Debra Linesch — Tue, 19 Apr 2011 11:49:46 PDT

Opening Editorial Notes

Einat Metzl — Tue, 19 Apr 2011 11:49:44 PDT