Ellen G Levine draws on her extensive experience in clinical settings to present a series of case studies that demonstrate how art-making and imaginary play can provide a space for children to metabolize their experiences. Each study is followed by an arts-based research discussion of the themes that emerged in the clinical sessions and the basic principles that were followed in the work with the child or family. The model of expressive arts therapy is used to explore the questions that arise from the cases, which range from issues of war trauma, to anger, grief, and the impact of mental illness in the family.This comprehensive guide to the use of play and art in working with children and parents will be of interest to students and practitioners in the fields of expressive arts therapy and psychotherapy, in addition to anyone working with children in disciplines such as psychology, social work and psychiatry.
Introduction. Part 1. Theoretical Foundations. 1.1. Art Therapy, Child Psychotherapy and Expressive Arts Therapy: A Professional Autobiography. 1.2. Working with Children and Parents: The Architecture of a Session. Part 2. Clinical Practice and Arts-Based Research. 2.1. Playing with Sadness The Beauty that Sustains. 2.2. Playing with War The Round Nest. 2.3. Playing with Anger and Control Playmates. 2.4. Playing as Food Taking Risks and Crossing Boundaries. 2.5. Playing with the House Keep Moving, Keep Playing. Conclusion. Appendix: The Developmental Profile and Treatment Progress Report. References.
Drawing on her many years of psychotherapy practice with children and their families as well as her teaching in the field of expressive arts therapy, Ellen Levine offers a clear and accessible text that integrates child psychotherapy with art therapy and expressive arts therapy... A unique aspect of these case studies is that Levine uses the expressive arts model of intermodal decentering along with dialogue as a framework for peer supervision with her husband, Dr. Stephen K. Levine, incorporating decentering as a collaborative arts-based research methodology to reflect upon her clinical work with each of her clients.... This well-written book inspires imaginative ways of working based on solid theoretical grounding. It offers to professionals and to students ways to adapt expressive arts work to the needs and challenges of children and their parents. It is a significant contribution to the emerging literatures in child psychotherapy, in expressive arts therapy and in arts-based research. Levine offers valuable insight and inspiration for practitioners working with children and families in the fields of psychotherapy, psychology, psychiatry, social work and art therapy to approach clinical work with openness for surprises and a playful and deeply respectful attitude.
