A Time-limited model of art therapy in general practice

Abstract

This article describes an innovative project which was inspired by a successful pilot study of art therapy in a rural GP setting (see Sowton, 1997). The present project was designed to provide art therapy as a complementary treatment for mental health problems in a Scottish urban primary care setting, and to implement an NHS priority by developing an innovative treatment for mental health problems. The project involved an independent formal audit using quantitative and qualitative measures. The article gives an overview of the prevailing conditions at the GP surgery, the contact between the therapist and the doctors, the types of referrals made, and the patients responses. The author shows how a flexible time-limited model was developed, which allowed the patient a short introductory period to overcome their fear of therapy and was followed by a longer period in which the patient could explore new options and build up strengths. Neither budgetary constraints nor the advocacy of alternatives to drug therapy are seen as the prime determinants of such therapy. Reference is made to counselling models developed in similar settings and it is concluded that art therapy can take its place alongside counselling as a suitable treatment for mental health problems in general practice.