Supervisors info:
Ευμορφια Κουκια, Καθηγήτρια, Τμήμα Νοσηλευτικής, ΕΚΠΑ
Μιχαήλ Χατζούλης, Καθηγητής, Τμήμα Νοσηλευτικής, ΕΚΠΑ
Σοφία Βενετία Βελονάκη, Καθηγήτρια, Τμήμα Νοσηλευτικής, ΕΚΠΑ
Summary:
Art therapy, also known as art psychotherapy, constitutes a form of psychotherapeutic
intervention that incorporates elements of art into the therapeutic process. This research paper
focuses on an in-depth analysis of art therapy, examining its development, the theoretical
framework that underpins it, as well as its practical application in therapy. Within the scope of this
study, an extensive literature review was conducted, which centers on the use of art therapy as an
intervention for individuals diagnosed with conditions such as depression, anxiety, post-traumatic
stress disorder (PTSD), and eating disorders. When comparing the findings of this study with
previous research, it is demonstrated that art therapy can function as a complementary therapeutic
method, offering significant benefits when combined with traditional therapeutic approaches. The
literature review of this study provides comprehensive information regarding the theoretical
foundations of art therapy, including psychoanalytic theories, person-centered approaches,
cognitive-behavioral models, and Gestalt therapy. Various methods and strategies for the
application of art therapy are also examined, such as directive and non-directive approaches, as
well as the use of mindfulness and digital tools within the therapeutic framework. This study
follows a methodological approach based on a literature review and incorporates detailed case
studies to gather quantitative and qualitative data, aimed at evaluating the effectiveness of art
therapy. In the final section, the research findings are presented through a literature overview of
various experimental studies, highlighting the impact of art therapy on a range of psychiatric
disorders.
The discussion of the results integrates the research findings and highlights the purpose
and practical significance of art therapy, identifying its potential therapeutic effects. Additionally,
the limitations of existing research are discussed, and directions for future research in the field of
art therapy are proposed, with the aim of expanding scientific knowledge and clinical practice.
Keywords:
Art therapy, Art psychotherapy, Mental health, Depression, Anxiety, Eating disorders, PTSD, Creative expression
