Sample Classes
History and Theory of Art Therapy I
This is a comprehensive overview of the history and founders of the field of art therapy. Students examine therapeutic approaches, philosophical frameworks, theoretical emphasis and the formation of the American Art Therapy Association (AATA). The class highlights pioneers and founders of the art therapy field as well as theoretical approaches in clinical art therapy practice.
Developmental and Treatment Models in Art Therapy
The focus of this course is the developmental stages as well as the treatment models most effective with those stages and with differing populations. The class emphasizes individual and group art therapy formats. Role playing demonstrates different models and stages. Students research and apply these models of art therapy to diverse clients as well as write critiques and reaction papers about the experiences.
Advanced Art Therapy Assessment
The class studies existing art therapy assessment tools and students utilize either a preexisting assessment tool or develop their own. Students write critical reviews on assessments and participate regularly in class discussions. Several art therapy assessments are explored in role playing, where each student writes a review from the viewpoint of the observer, clinician or client. Those conducting role plays present an overview of the assessment (and author) and provide handouts for the class members. Students also complete a paper related to art therapy assessment with a specific population.
Art Therapy in Diverse Settings: Individual and Group Therapy
This class provides background and preparation for prospective art therapists to practice art therapy in a variety of settings. Students become familiar with basic theories of individual and group dynamics, are able to adapt a dynamic understanding for special-needs groups, and are able to integrate theories inherent to art therapy with a spectrum of psychopathology and developmental characteristics in divergent treatment settings. This course includes theoretical lectures, readings and papers as well as experiential role plays.
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