Susan Buchalter - Art Therapy and Creative Coping Techniques for Older Adults

This publication focuses on ways in which art therapy and various creative coping techniques are used in therapy sessions with older adults. The projects are geared toward seniors but many can be easily modified to suit the needs of other populations. Some themes such as reminiscing are most helpful to those who have lived many years and have had varied experiences. Each group of individuals may require directives and supplies that suit their individual needs. As with other clientele, the seniors prefer certain materials, such as markers, and specific projects, such as collage work. When leading a therapy group, the leader needs to take into consideration the age, population, needs, environment and physical and psychological state of the group members.

One should not view this collection simply as a cookbook of therapy techniques. Therapy sessions cannot be scripted ahead of time, but a collection of specific approaches can provide the framework for countless therapeutic interventions. Readers should take it as a challenge to add their own personal touches in order to create sessions that are most meaningful for their particular clientele and themselves. The more ideas the therapist has at his fingertips, the easier it will be to lead a successful therapeutic group. The therapist may modify, change and combine ideas at his discretion.

The group leader will need to decide which directives are too difficult and if directives need to be carried out in more than one session. He always needs to take into consideration the clients abilities, attitude and psychological state. The group format and exercises must adapt accordingly.

Therapists, psychiatrists, psychologists, counselors, social workers, students, teachers and gerontologists would benefit from reviewing this publication. The vignettes provide readers with descriptions of artwork and associated feelings. They help the reader understand the senior experience. The chapters focus on different types of art therapy themes and coping skills such as stress reduction and self-esteem.

I refer to group members interchangeably as clients and patients, although there are some therapists who do not care for these labels. I also refer to the therapist as he to avoid the more cumbersome he/she. I do not mean to discriminate in any manner.

It is important to refer to the reference section when indicated because some of the projects will need modifications that are suggested in this area. An example would be a project that might be considered helpful for one group of clients but harmful for another group. This information may not be included in the immediate project description due to the specified book format.

When reading through the directives, it is essential to understand that they are designed for people who have the same feelings, wants and needs as everyone else. Older adults want to be valued, loved, accepted and respected. The only difference between seniors and other individuals is that they are older, more experienced and often more vulnerable.