Art Therapy Autobiographical Intervention for Addiction Treatment in Tanzania

Abstract

An autobiographical, narrative art therapy approach to treat drug addiction was co-developed at the Methadone Clinic of Muhimbili National Hospital, Dar-es-Salaam, Tanzania. The 10-session art therapy intervention included a group of 7 men. The protocol, as illustrated with a case example, suggests that it could help resolve deep-seated pain, decrease shame, and increase self-esteem.

Keywords:

• Addictions
• narrative
• autobiography
• art therapy
• Tanzania

Acknowledgments

We thank Dr Frank Masao for his support and the Staff of the MAT Clinic for their collaboration. We are grateful to Geri Hurlbut for running an intensive training on “Art Therapy and Addiction” at MUHAS. We thank the clients for their commitment and their openness about their life story.

Additional information

Notes on contributors

Paola Luzzatto

Paola Luzzatto, PhD, ATR-BC, is Art Psychotherapist and Honorary Lecturer, Muhimbili University of Health and Allied Sciences (MUHAS) in Dar es Salaam, Tanzania

Letisia Ruzibuka

Letisia Ruzibuka is Senior Occupational Therapist, Muhimbili National Hospital (MNH)

Mary Njau

Mary Njau is Psychiatric Nurse Officer, MNH

Anitha Makoye

Anitha Makoye is Peer Support Worker, MNH

Jessie Mbwambo

Dr. Jessie Mbwambo is Principal Medical Specialist in Psychiatry, MNH, and Senior Researcher and Adjunct Lecturer, MUHAS.