Date of Award

Spring 5-2015

Document Type

Master's Project

Degree Name

Master of Science (MS)

Department

EVMS School of Health Professions

Program/Concentration

Art Therapy and Counseling

Committee Director

Sarah P. Deaver

Abstract

Medical illness and injury as well as, the resulting psychosocial stressors can greatly impact the psychological health of the patient and their family. It is important to provide mental health services as collaborative treatment in medical hospitals. Art therapy is a uniquely accessible mental health treatment for all ages and abilities. Previous research supports the benefits of art therapy for individuals suffering from various medical illnesses and injuries. Art therapy can alleviate depression, ease anxiety, provide tools for coping with symptoms, and help the individual overcome medical crisis or trauma. This study examined the experience of art therapists working with children receiving treatment for medical illness or injury. The study also gathered information regarding the art therapist’s interventions and therapeutic approach when working with pediatric patients. Five medical art therapists working in pediatric hospitals participated in semi-structured qualitative interviews. Interview questions asked interview participants how many years they have been an art therapist, how long they have worked in a medical setting, about their current work setting, the client population, their approach to art therapy, and how important they think supplemental therapies such as art therapy are for individuals in medical hospitals. The content analysis indicated common themes including Continuum of Care, Scope of Practice, Empowerment, Considerations for Working in a Medical Setting, and Benefits of Art Therapy as a component of the medical team. The findings in this study provided a better understanding of art therapists’ work in pediatric hospitals and indicate implications for further research.

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