Description
There is nothing prescriptive about Acceptance and Commitment Therapy or Art Therapy. Both involve the client and the therapist cultivating creativity and psychological flexibility by letting go of limited, constricted, or habitual ways of thinking and being. This leads us to think, create, respond, and behave in ways of our choosing, bringing richness and renewed meaning to our lives.
Through this work you will be able to apply ACT-informed art therapy to your practice. Art activities both illustrate the concepts and exist as stand-alone interventions to heighten creative potential and mindful attention to the present moment. ACT is effective when treating psychological difficulties such as depression, anxiety, OCD and psychosis. Readers will develop a meaningful context for understanding how ACT and art therapy align to creatively achieve positive outcomes for you and your clients.
This book is such an incredible introduction to Acceptance and Commitment Therapy. Dr. Backos uses research, case studies, Art therapy directives, ACT vignettes by colleagues and students, and recommended resources to provide a digestible framework for this impactful approach to psychological flexibility. These lend a very exciting and enriching aspect to the six core principles (hexaflex) of ACT: acceptance, present moment awareness, cognitive defusion, self as context, values and committed action.I’ve utilized the drawing your breath, Mindful action plan, monsters on the bus, and defusion Art therapy directives myself and as a Registered and Board-certified Art therapist, with teen clients as a way to explore letting go, becoming present, and reducing rigidity. Most importantly, Dr. Backos espouses cultural humility, professional ethics, authenticity, knowledge and empathy in this wonderful book!!
This book is such a needed resource. ACT terminology and application can be dense and difficult to grasp. But this is not a dry, heavy textbook but an accessible, entertaining read. Dr. Backos articulately and clearly conveys her expertise with ACT and art therapy through her decades of experience. ACT concepts are well described and supported by research and experience. The provided case studies, guest contributors, art, and diagrams help reinforce learning. Highly instructional with practical examples of ACT art therapy. A must buy!
Wonderful layout, insightful art invitations and case examples. Have already starting using “Just One Line” directive with myself and clients while art journaling/checking in. I always appreciate the cultural considerations and humility brought to her work and the way she describes art therapy and where it is going! Great for therapists, art therapists, and humans alike!
Just received my copy of The ACT Art Therapy, which luckily I pre-ordered. Perusing this book and appreciating the way it has been laid out, which gives so much insight to what we do as ACT therapists, coaches, consultants. One of the beauties of this, for those of us who were not trained in CBT, is the way in which Dr. Backos explains terminology and makes it all so rapidly accessible. I also deeply appreciate the very clear and straightforward ways she has enlightened us to use creatity and art with the ACT model.
As an art therapist I’ve been looking for new books to help continue my understanding and application of ACT through art therapy. So when I saw this book I couldn’t wait to get my hands on it. Dr. Backos does a great job sharing her personal connection, while bridging in research, neuroscience and art therapy. I’ve found it inspiring and think it can be beneficial for any mental health professional to connect to and apply in their practice. Can’t wait to try the art directives myself!