Art, Psychotherapy and Psychosis (PDF)

The history of art therapy is inextricably linked with clients suffering from psychotic conditions. Art, Psychotherapy and Psychosis traces the evolution of this specialised and innovative treatment through its development in psychiatric and psychotherapeutic practice to its new position within community settings.
Part One explores issues involved in working with psychosis through different theoretical models and reflects the influence of psychotherapy, psychoanalysis, Jungian psychology and psychiatry. Each chapter is written by an experienced practitioner, drawing on detailed case material and illustrated with many examples of clients' work. The innovative practices described extend the existing theory of analytical art psychotherapy and can be applied equally to clients experiencing acute episodes and those with long-term illnesses. Part two examines the historical context of art therapy and psychosis, describing its origins within psychiatric institutions. The book goes on to consider the implications of moving psychiatric patients out into the community and looks at how therapists have had to adapt in response to legislative changes.
Art, Psychotherapy and Psychosis represents the diversity of art therapy practice and offers new perspectives for therapists working with psychosis.