This study proceeds from the assumption that art as a creative modality, is capable of deepening the individual's awareness of the self and the manner in which he communicates and forms relationships with his self as well as with significant others. This assumption is supported by references to personality theory which is essentially client-centred in origin. The study describes and assesses the value of art as a therapy for the emotionally troubled adolescent, focusing on the process rather than the product. The results would indicate that art is therapeutic as the cathartic experience allows the graphic image to speak in symbolic language for the client, allowing the therapist to observe the client's psychic relationships and his coming to terms with his self. / Psychology of Education / M.Ed. (Psychology of Education)

This study proceeds from the assumption that art as a creative modality, is capable of deepening the individual's awareness of the self and the manner in which he communicates and forms relationships with his self as well as with significant others. This assumption is supported by references to personality theory which is essentially client-centred in origin. The study describes and assesses the value of art as a therapy for the emotionally troubled adolescent, focusing on the process rather than the product. The results would indicate that art is therapeutic as the cathartic experience allows the graphic image to speak in symbolic language for the client, allowing the therapist to observe the client's psychic relationships and his coming to terms with his self. / Psychology of Education / M.Ed. (Psychology of Education)

This research project aims to explore how art therapists use textiles in clinical practice and personal artmaking and to learn about the perceived benefits and challenges of this type of work. The study utilizes a Qualtrics survey, with 70 participants, and a focus group methodology, with 4 art therapists. Through the analysis of the participants’ conversations, artwork, and survey information, emergent themes were identified related to examining biases of gender identity, challenges related to considerations of time, the repetitive and slow nature that are particular mindful qualities of textile making, potentially heightened benefits of textile work with children and adolescents, and a call to reexamine boundaries of technique with the inclusion of unstructured textile exploration. Art therapists described benefits for clients particularly related to trauma work, grounding, and sense of mastery. These themes emphasized findings that illuminate the value of working with textiles in personal artmaking and in art therapeutic environments.