Progressive Supranuclear Palsy and Art Therapy: Case Study

Abstract

This case study describes art therapy with a client diagnosed with Progressive Supranuclear Palsy. Throughout 26 group art therapy sessions, significant emotional and behavioral changes unfolded along three distinct phases of the process. These stages included: identifying losses, reconciling difficult relationships, and articulating her dreams and desires. Art therapy seemed to provide emotional, behavioral, social, and cognitive benefits.

Keywords:

• Art therapy
• degenerative diseases
• progressive supranuclear palsy
• nursing home
• non-verbal communication

Acknowledgments

We would like to thank to Alexandra Marin for her help in editing the manuscript.

Additional information

Notes on contributors

Patricia Marco

Patricia Marco, MA, is an art therapist and doctorate candidate in the Department of Audiovisual Communication, Documentation and History of Art, Faculty of Fine Arts, Universitat Politècnica de València, Valencia, Spain.

Rosa Redolat

Rosa Redolat, PhD, is Full Professor of Psychobiology, Department of Psychobiology, Faculty of Psychology and Logopedy, Universitat de València, Valencia, Spain.

Helena Maria Sáez

Helena Maria Sáez, MA, is Professor in the Department of Didactics of Musical, Plastic and Corporal Expression, Universitat de València.