Arts Therapy
Subject Overview
Art is a form of psychotherapy for individuals, families and groups in which the participants engage in artistic processes within a therapeutic relationship. It is a valuable therapeutic approach to a wide range of psychological, social and physical conditions. This subject examines the diversity of art therapy models and methods.
Learning Outcomes
- Discuss the history, philosophy and practice of art and music therapy in health care
- Review the application of art and music therapy situations
- Design a therapeutic experience
Content and Structure
Music therapy:
- Context, history, methods and research base
- Physiological, psychological, social and spiritual roles of music
- Medical and psychotherapeutic models
- Improvisation
- Controversies
Art therapy:
- Visual and performing arts
- Theoretical frameworks and historical development
- Group processes
- Therapeutic approaches and their application with different client populations
- Therapy and spirituality
Art and music therapy in practice:
- Contemplation
- Drawing
- Meditation
- Indigenous art
Subject Structure
This subject runs for five weeks, with the following structure:
Week 1: Pre-reading of prescribed texts
Week 2: Digital Intensive Classroom (5 days x 8 hrs/day)
Weeks 3 – 5: Submission of assessments online