Practical Applications of Neuroscience-Informed Art Therapy

Abstract

Advances in the field of neuroscience can be used to support scientific research and best practices in the profession of art therapy. This article provides a general overview of how neuroscience informs art therapy by providing an overview of neuroscience research in art therapy and offering practical applications for adopting a neuroscience-informed way of working. Integrating neuroscience research into art therapy practice entails having a clear rationale for one’s practice and when sharing didactic information with clients can aid treatment goals.

Additional information

Notes on contributors

Juliet L. King

Juliet L. King is Associate Professor in Art Therapy at The George Washington University, Alexandria, VA, and Adjunct Associate Professor in Neurology at Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis, IN.

Girija Kaimal

Girija Kaimal is Associate Professor in Art Therapy at Drexel University, Philadelphia, PA.

Lukasz Konopka

Lukasz Konopka is Director of the Brain to Behavior Neuroscience Program, Institute for Personal Development (IPD), Romeoville, IL.

Christopher Belkofer

Christopher Belkofer is Associate Professor in Art Therapy at Mount Mary University, Milwaukee, WI.

Christianne E. Strang

Christianne E. Strang is Assistant Professor in Psychology at The University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, AL. Correspondence concerning this article should be addressed to the fifth author at [email protected]