Medical materials as a therapeutic tool in art therapy

Abstract

Using medical materials as an art therapy tool for hospitalized youth is a growing trend in paediatric care. This approach recognizes that young people’s hospital experiences can be overwhelming and anxiety-inducing. However, tools to help them regain control and engage in their care can positively affect their well-being. This article explores a brief (one-session) art therapy process aimed at helping restore a sense of control and safety for youth (3–18 years) in an in-hospital school setting. It describes symbolic art-making with medical materials during brief art therapy sessions using four techniques – self-portraits, therapeutic dolls, animal forms and ‘magic wands’ – and offers illustrative examples of the author’s art created in response to/mirroring of her young patients. Although more research is needed to prove its effectiveness, the described process appears therapeutic, providing positive coping strategies, decreasing anxiety and stress and enhancing the overall hospital experience for hospitalized young people.