The experience of art therapy for individuals following a first diagnosis of a psychotic disorder: a grounded theory study

ABSTRACT

Research on art therapy and psychosis has focused mainly on individuals who have been service users for many years. This study used grounded theory methodology to explore how service users experienced art therapy following their first diagnosis of a psychotic disorder, and the processes through which art therapy might be helpful for such individuals. Eight participants were interviewed, with two interviewed twice. A preliminary theory was created and seven categories were constructed from the data, namely: unpressured atmosphere; pleasure and engagement in art-making; expression and communication; connecting with others; changing emotional experience and experience of self; supporting recovery and continuation of art; and not the right fit. Participants reported that through the atmosphere of art therapy, art-making, and communication, they were able to build relationships, connect with others, experience a sense of commonality, absorption, sense of freedom, and discover alternative perspectives. Whilst this study has some limitations, the results build on previous research by focusing on a previously under-researched group. The findings are considered alongside existing research and theoretical perspectives. Clinical implications and recommendations for future research are highlighted.

KEYWORDS:

• Art therapy
• art psychotherapy
• psychosis
• schizophrenia
• early intervention

Acknowledgements

The authors would like to thank the participants of this research who gave their time and talked in-depth about their experience of art therapy. Thanks are also due to the art therapists who enabled access to service users of art therapy.

Disclosure statement

No potential conflict of interest was reported by the authors.

Notes on contributors

Sarah Lynch, D.Clin.Psy., is a clinical psychologist at South London and Maudsley NHS Trust, working with young people considered to be at risk of psychosis. She trained at Salomons Centre for Applied Psychology and qualified in 2017.

Sue Holttum, PhD, AFBPsS, is a senior lecturer at the Salomons Centre for Applied Psychology, Canterbury Christ Church University, providing research training and research supervision on the clinical psychology doctorate programme, PhD in Professional Practice, and the MSc in cognitive behaviour therapy. Sue also has a part-time function as the BAAT Research Officer.

Val Huet is the Chief Executive Officer of the BAATand has been an art therapist since 1986. She later trained as a group psychotherapist and as an organisation consultant, and has recently completed a PhD on art therapy-based interventions for work-related stress in health and social care.