A Model for Art Therapists in Community-Based Practice

Abstract

With growing trends toward preventative, community-based health care, art therapists must expand their scope of practice beyond the medical model and individual psychodynamics in order to serve, include, and empower those in need. In this article the authors review literature that illustrates the unique qualities art therapists can contribute to community-based work with their conflict resolution skills, creativity, flexibility, and knowledge of group dynamics and the effects of trauma on individuals and communities. Informed by overarching theories and the unique needs of the community, driven by goals of social inclusion, empowerment, and stigma reduction, a model is presented for art therapists interested in working with communities to facilitate a process that recognizes and acknowledges ways to reduce power differentials and increase the building of trust and relationships.