Arts therapies: theory, practice and effects

Abstract

Arts therapies are therapies in which art, dance, drama and music is used in order achieve personal and social therapeutic goals appropriate for the individual. The use of the art media make it possible to approach the client in a non-verbal and low profile way. The emphasize is on doing, action methods, and the experience in the moment of action. This emphasis seems especially appropriate for persons with psychiatric problems, dementia, intellectual disabilities or brain damage, but also persons with a tendency to rationalize. The research in this field is still young, but promising. In randomized controlled trials, effects on psychosocial functioning and quality of life were shown among several patients groups and in experimental studies theoretical assumptions were tested. In this session, researchers on arts therapies will give an overview of the state of the art of the working factors and effects of these therapies. Discussant: Susan van Hooren