Art Therapy and Parts Work in the Treatment of Complex Trauma: A Literature Review

Author

Amy PatelFollow

Date of Award

Spring 5-5-2023

Document Type

Thesis

Degree Name

MA - Master of Arts

Department

Expressive Therapies

Advisor

Lee Ann Thill

Abstract

In recent decades, there has been an ever-expanding interest in addressing the effects of trauma. Additionally, more attention is being focused on the insidious and compounding effects of complex trauma. Within the context of this increased spotlight, a range of therapies have been born to address these effects. Art therapy is one example of a modality that uses art materials to externalize. Parts work is a group of theories that addresses the intrapsychic relationships that govern our thoughts, feelings, sensations and actions. Two parts work theories, structural dissociation and internal family systems, are explored in this thesis. This literature review focuses on the qualities that may contribute to the compatibility of art therapy and parts work in the treatment of complex trauma.

Creative Commons License

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Recommended Citation

Patel, Amy, "Art Therapy and Parts Work in the Treatment of Complex Trauma: A Literature Review" (2023). Expressive Therapies Capstone Theses. 733.
https://digitalcommons.lesley.edu/expressive_theses/733