graduate thesis
PHOTOGRAPHY AS A THERAPEUTIC MODALITY:
FINDING THE LIGHT WITHIN THE DARKNESS
by
Michelle J. Belanger © 2016
Abstract
"In this study I wish to research and analyze the juxtapositions between art therapy and therapeutic photography for personal and professional exploration. My intention is to enhance and expound upon my understanding and knowledge of art therapy and therapeutic photography. This thesis will coincide between theories and ideas based upon art, photography, art therapy, and psychotherapy. I hope to show others that these modalities are significant forms of coping and healing. Art therapy allows communication between the conscious and unconscious through the reflective and creative process. In this study, I will explore the value of art therapy, therapeutic photography, counseling and/or self-care. These aspects may help encourage a positive shift in an individual’s lifestyle and overall health and well-being. “Courage may be one of the master keys to life or psychotherapy in the sense that when you do what you’re afraid of, as opposed to avoiding what you are afraid of, that may be the heart of anything that’s empowering at all” (Hatcher, 2014, p. 13).
I feel that self-care is crucial to one’s mental and physical health and if feasible should always be a priority. It is also important to note that art therapy and therapeutic photography can be cathartic but also can stimulate a pleasurable form of release and joy. This study will also explore in depth how art therapy can benefit those with mental health disorders such as anxiety and depression, as well as various emotional or behavioral problems, family dysfunction, post-traumatic stress disorder, obsessive-compulsive disorder, addiction and self-medication. Art therapy, particularly therapeutic photography, can be a self-soothing coping mechanism and assist with the process of self-care, mindfulness and healing." (Belanger, 2016)
FINDING THE LIGHT WITHIN THE DARKNESS
by
Michelle J. Belanger © 2016
Abstract
"In this study I wish to research and analyze the juxtapositions between art therapy and therapeutic photography for personal and professional exploration. My intention is to enhance and expound upon my understanding and knowledge of art therapy and therapeutic photography. This thesis will coincide between theories and ideas based upon art, photography, art therapy, and psychotherapy. I hope to show others that these modalities are significant forms of coping and healing. Art therapy allows communication between the conscious and unconscious through the reflective and creative process. In this study, I will explore the value of art therapy, therapeutic photography, counseling and/or self-care. These aspects may help encourage a positive shift in an individual’s lifestyle and overall health and well-being. “Courage may be one of the master keys to life or psychotherapy in the sense that when you do what you’re afraid of, as opposed to avoiding what you are afraid of, that may be the heart of anything that’s empowering at all” (Hatcher, 2014, p. 13).
I feel that self-care is crucial to one’s mental and physical health and if feasible should always be a priority. It is also important to note that art therapy and therapeutic photography can be cathartic but also can stimulate a pleasurable form of release and joy. This study will also explore in depth how art therapy can benefit those with mental health disorders such as anxiety and depression, as well as various emotional or behavioral problems, family dysfunction, post-traumatic stress disorder, obsessive-compulsive disorder, addiction and self-medication. Art therapy, particularly therapeutic photography, can be a self-soothing coping mechanism and assist with the process of self-care, mindfulness and healing." (Belanger, 2016)
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