Arteterapia e Play Therapy: connessioni tra i due approcci nella psicoterapia con gli adolescenti

Abstract

This article explores how key concepts of Art Therapy and Play Therapy can be compatible ways of working with adolescents. The connections between the two approaches can be identified in their philosophical structure of seeing the self as an embodied and relational process, in considering the importance of play and experimentation within the therapeutic encounter and in stressing the importance of the therapeutic relationship and the confidence that adolescent is able to self-direct towards his own growth and learning. In addition, Art Therapy and Play Therapy can draw on research on neuroscience to demonstrate the importance of congruence, authenticity and consistency (both of the therapist and the adolescent) in the construction of the therapeutic relationship.

Keywords

• play therapy
• art therapy
• adolescence
• psychoterapy