Positive Art Therapy Theory and Practice Integrating Positive Psychology with Art Therapy

Positive Art Therapy Theory and Practice outlines a clear, systematic approach for combining positive psychology with art therapy?s capacity to mobilize client strengths; induce engagement, flow and positive emotions; transform perceptions; build healing relationships and empowering narratives; and illuminate life purpose and meaning. Woven throughout are clinical illustrations, state-of-the-art research, discussion questions, and reflections on how therapists can apply this approach to their work with clients, and their personal and professional development. The book also includes a comprehensive list of more than 80 positive art therapy directives, a robust glossary, and lists of strengths and values. Written in an inviting and amusing style, this manual is both entertaining and practical?an invaluable tool for any practitioner looking to apply the most current theory and research on positive psychology and art therapy to their clinical practice.

List of Figures Foreword: A New Era in Art Therapy Dr. Shaun McNiff Foreword: Art Therapy, Inherently Positive Dr. Robert Biswas-Diener Acknowledgements 1. Introduction. 2. A History of Positive Psychology 3. Happiness and Wellbeing 4. Positive Art Therapy Emerges Interlude: The Positive Art Therapy Manifesto 5. Positive Emotions and Emotion Regulation 6. Creativity 7. Flow 8. Strengths 9. Relationships 10. Meaning and Purpose 11. Meaning-making and Perception 12. Accomplishment 13. Professional Applications and Future Directions Appendix A. Positive Art Therapy Directives Appendix B. Glossary Appendix C. List of Strengths Appendix D. List of Values Bibliography Index

Rebecca Ann Wilkinson, MA, ATR-BC, LCPAT, is co-founder of Creative Wellbeing Workshops, which uses art and the creative process to help individuals and organizations manage stress, cope with adversity, and increase wellbeing. She serves as adjunct faculty at George Washington University’s Graduate Art Therapy Program. Rebecca is also a practicing artist and author/illustrator of Miraval Mandalas Coloring Book.

Gioia Chilton, PhD, ATR-BC, LCPAT, also co-founder of Creative Wellbeing Workshops and adjunct faculty at George Washington University, has written extensively on the intersection of art therapy and positive psychology, collaborative art processes, and altered books. Her doctoral thesis, an award-winning inquiry into the expression of positive emotions in art therapy, was acclaimed for its innovative arts-based research methods.