Visual art therapy's unique contribution in the treatment of post-traumatic stress disorders

J Trauma Dissociation. 2005;6(4):5-38. doi: 10.1300/j229v06n04_02.

Abstract

This paper describes visual art therapy as an integrative and unique approach, which is most appropriate for the multidimensional treatment of post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). The unique contribution of visual art therapy in the treatment of PTSD is expressed in three major areas: (1) working on traumatic memories, (2) the process of symbolization-integration, and (3) containment, transference and countertransference. Two case descriptions of traumatized patients treated in visual art therapy are presented.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Art Therapy / methods*
  • Combat Disorders / psychology
  • Combat Disorders / therapy
  • Dissociative Disorders / psychology
  • Humans
  • Psychotherapeutic Processes
  • Stress Disorders, Post-Traumatic / psychology
  • Stress Disorders, Post-Traumatic / therapy*
  • Symbolism