MACMILLAN Psychotherapy, Literature and the Visual and Performing Arts (Palgrave Studies in Creativity and Culture)

Product Description This book explores the relevance of literature and the performing and visual arts for effective clinical psychotherapy. There is a growing interest in the use of the arts in psychotherapy, in part due to an increasing awareness of the limitations in verbal communication and scepticism towards traditional forms of medical treatment. Gathering together perspectives from international practitioners this volume embraces the value of a range of mediums to psychotherapy, from film and photo-therapy to literature and narrative therapy. Based on theoretical studies, clinical expertise and experiential learning, authors offer detailed guidelines on the value of various art forms in practice.  Review “Each essay is written by professionals in psychology or medicine who are also active participants in the visual or performing arts. Each chapter includes a historical review of the topic as well as a comprehensive review of the research literature. … This is a unique, wide ranging resource that will benefit clinicians wishing to expand their skills, interdisciplinary graduate programs, and researchers. Summing Up: Recommended. Advanced undergraduates through faculty and professionals.” (D. L. Loers, Choice, Vol. 56 (5), January, 2019) From the Back Cover This book explores the relevance of literature and the performing and visual arts for effective clinical psychotherapy. There is a growing interest in the use of the arts in psychotherapy, in part due to an increasing awareness of the limitations in verbal communication and scepticism towards traditional forms of medical treatment. Gathering together perspectives from international practitioners this volume embraces the value of a range of mediums to psychotherapy, from film and photo-therapy to literature and narrative therapy. Based on theoretical studies, clinical expertise and experiential learning, authors offer detailed guidelines on the value of various art forms in practice.  About the Author Bruce Kirkcaldy is Director of the International Centre for the Study of Occupational and Mental Health and has published over 230 articles including 11 books.