Date of Award

Spring 5-1-2026

Document Type

Thesis

Degree Name

Master of Arts in Clinical Mental Health Counseling

Major

Expressive Therapies

First Advisor

Erica Curcio

Second Advisor

Rhona Engelman

Third Advisor

Raquel Stephenson

Abstract

 

Abstract

            Children with emotional and behavioral challenges represent a vulnerable population that needs more attention and innovative forms of treatment. The behavior of these young people is often marked by impulsive behaviors and intense emotions in the process of getting their basic needs met. The current study explores how a combination of art therapy and a strength-based approach is beneficial and appropriate for children in a behavioral based therapeutic school. Progress was traced through one singular client in both group and individual settings over the course of 6 months. Interventions varied with the goals of increasing self-awareness, fostering autonomy, increasing empathy, and bolstering self-esteem. A few main themes emerged based on observations of the sessions: 1) art directives were effective in breaking down resistance; 2) art therapy sustained the attention of clients and promoted emotion regulation; 3) art therapy directives fostered autonomy and self-esteem; 4) art therapy and a strength-based approach allowed clients to see themselves in a positive light. The participant benefited from the group therapy experience and connected with others through witnessing and peer support while individual sessions supported greater self-expression and deeper meaning. Findings suggest that integrating art therapy and a strength-based approach is a valuable and appropriate method for working with children with emotional and behavioral challenges.

Creative Commons License

Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 License
This work is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 License.

Additional Files
Wyld Approval.pdf (55 kB)
Approval form
Wyld Approval.pdf (55 kB)
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