My approach to counseling is one that weaves Solution Focused and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy with Expressive Arts, Play and Sand Tray.
Solution Focused Therapy (SFT)
SFT is a process that helps people change by constructing solutions rather than dwelling on problems. This type of therapy tends to be shorter-term than traditional psychotherapy. The therapist helps the client identify elements of the desired solution, which are usually already present in the client’s life. The client learns to build on these elements, which form the basis for ongoing change. Rather than searching for the causes of the problem, the focus is on defining the changes and making them a reality. The two key therapeutic issues are: (1) how the client wants his or her life to be different, and (2) what it will take to make it happen. Creating a detailed picture of what it will be like when life is better creates a feeling of hope, and this makes the solution seem possible. The therapist helps the client focus on the future and how it will be better when things change. It is important to develop a set of specific, detailed goals. These goals drive the therapy process and keep it focused and efficient.
Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT)
CBT is based on the idea that how we think (cognition), how we feel (emotion) and how we act (behavior) all interact together. Specifically, our thoughts influence our feelings and our behavior follows. Clinical sessions focus on modifying everyday thoughts with the aim of positively influencing emotions and behaviors. The particular therapeutic techniques vary according to the client or particular kind of issue, but commonly include keeping a diary of significant events and associated feelings, thoughts and behaviors; questioning and testing assumptions or habits of thoughts that might be unhelpful and unrealistic; and trying out new ways of behaving and responding. Relaxation techniques are also commonly included. CBT is widely accepted as an evidence-based, effective short term or brief therapy.
Expressive Arts
Expressive arts includes visual arts, painting, sculpture, drama, storytelling, creative writing, poetry, music, dance, everything that is usually thought of as creative expression. The expressive arts take us into the world of imagery and emotion, of visions and feelings. For many, expressive art is a healing, spiritual path, a transformational process, a way of being. Incorporating expressive arts modalities into treatment can be vitally important. It is the most natural way of expressing ourselves and communicating with others. Providing opportunities to engage in a combination of the arts is essential because each of us express ourselves in different ways.
The process of expressing oneself through art unites body, mind, and spirit. Scientific studies tell us that art heals by changing a person's physiology and attitude. The body's physiology changes from one of fear to one of creativity and inspiration. Art and music put a person in a different brain wave pattern; affect a person's autonomic nervous system, their hormonal balance and their brain neurotransmitters.
“Art is not a thing; it is a way." Elbert Hubbard
Engaging in expressive arts immediately changes a person's perceptions, attitude, emotional state, way-of-being in the world and pain perception. People are able to externalize thoughts and feelings, and are often surprised by the art they have created! The wonder and the beauty of their creations are almost beyond what they could have imagined!
Suzi Gablik writes, "There is another kind of art, which speaks to the power of connectedness and establishes bonds, art that calls us into relationship”.
Through images, symbols and metaphor people begin to experience a connectedness to themselves, others and their world. The process of change begins with the first movement, in drawing the first line, by making the first sound, by raising head and hands in the dance or in writing the first word. People begin to act from a place of no self-judgment, from a place of letting go, of trust, and of love. Self-discovery and self-acceptance begins as the lines increase, the sounds connect, the movements join, or the words add up and art emerges. Their art becomes a visible or audible message of transformation, growth and healing.
Resources: http://www.arttherapy.org
http://www.expressivetherapy.com