Art Therapy and Childbearing Issues
“This text will surely be used in my own classroom as an example of how to use destigmatizing and agentic approaches that help mothers to explore, cope with, and shape their destinies for generations to come.”
This edited text is the first to initiate a broad conversation on key childbearing issues in the United States through the treatment modality of art therapy. The book is divided into four sections: Pregnancy, Postpartum, Grief and Loss, and Special Topics, and within these sections, the chapters offer diverse and unique perspectives on how art therapy is used with women undergoing various stages of the reproductive process. The authors discuss a range of art therapy topics including the role of transference, attachment, the integration of psyche and soma, trauma and the underlying influence of neuropsychology.
Meant to be an open door for continued future discussions and considerations, each chapter also addresses the shadow motifs outside the collective and cultural norms of childbearing issues, such as subtle psychological challenges, grief and loss, sociopolitical issues, midwifery, menstruation, and disadvantaged populations, including sex-trafficking. Each chapter offers references, research, art therapy applications, and case studies to further highlight key issues. Also included are visual representations from those who participated and benefited from art therapy that was integrated into their treatment. The approachable style will appeal to a range of professionals and readers who will come away with a new awareness of art therapy and how to work with women as they go through this life-changing experience.
