Self Psychology Art Therapy: Theoretical tenets and theories of change
References
Finlay, L. (2016). Relational integrative psychotherapy: Engaging process and theory in practice. Chichester, West Sussex, UK: John Wiley & Sons Ltd.
Rubin, J.A. (2001). Approaches to art therapy: Theory and technique (2nd ed.). New York, NY: Brunner-Routledge.
Growth
- Ego strength is built
- Development of a cohesive self
- Expression of grandiosity without shame
- Exhibitionistic wishes can be integrated into sense of self
(Rubin, 2001)
Water:
Theories of change
Through art making:
- build ego strength by developing independent ways of relieving tension
- the art can become a "self-object"; a step towards individuation
- can provide an empathic experience for the client when the therapist mirrors the client by creating art work in response
(Rubin, 2001)
Water:
Theories of change
Art making can be the way that pain and tension can be "expressed by transforming into a 'transitional object' by:
- recall or imaging of object when it is not there
- introjection of the object
- identification with the object; transmuting internalisation", (Rubin, 2001,p. 68).
- "Art can be used as a form of exhibition, as a way to create, to make magic, to be understood, admired and affirmed" (Rubin, 2001,p. 69).
Self Psychology
Kohut
- Empathy or vicarious introspection as observation tool and treatment
- The goal of therapy is focused on repairing 'self-deficits' not met in the individual's developmental process towards developing self-cohesion and individuation
- Assurance and affirmation come through the 'gleam in the mother's eye'
- Transferences include: mirror transferences - twinship and merger wishes; idealizing transferences
(Rubin, 2001)
Roots
theories and essence