Date of Award

Spring 4-21-2025

Document Type

Thesis

Degree Name

Master of Arts in Expressive Therapies

Major

Expressive Therapies

First Advisor

Dr. Raquel Stephenson

Abstract

Parkinson’s Disease (PD) is a neurodegenerative disorder that affects motor function, emotional well-being, and social engagement. While traditional rehabilitation approaches emphasize physical therapy and medication management, emerging research highlights the potential of creative arts therapies in addressing the multidimensional challenges of PD. This thesis explores the implementation of an intermodal expressive arts therapy intervention designed to support individuals with PD through dance, music, drama, and visual arts. Conducted over six weeks within a community support group in Nova Scotia, the program included guided visualization, Brain Dance exercises, creative movement, drama-based activities, and reflective art-making. A qualitative, practitioner-based method was used, with data gathered through the facilitator’s reflective journaling, observational notes, and arts-based responses. Observations highlighted recurring patterns of emotional expression, social engagement, and cognitive stimulation. This study offers a practitioner perspective on the integration of expressive arts in community-based care, contributing to the growing recognition of holistic, creative approaches in neurorehabilitation. Future research is recommended to incorporate quantitative measures to assess physical outcomes and to further evaluate the benefits of expressive arts interventions for individuals living with PD.

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