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The Art and Science of Leadership for the Art Therapist
Book chapter

The Art and Science of Leadership for the Art Therapist

Girija Kaimal
The Wiley Handbook of Art Therapy, pp 941-948
31 Oct 2025

Abstract

aesthetic leadership art therapists creativity effective leadership interpersonal skills intra-personal skills metaphors transformational leadership
Innovation and imagination are essential for effective leadership, interpersonal, and intra-personal awareness, which honed in artistic practices are indispensable for effectively leading communities. Essentially, leaders are those in whom we trust to lead us to better lives. Transformational Leadership Theory addresses societal context. The aspects of authentic intra-personal and interpersonal skills in aesthetic leadership can be especially relevant to creative arts therapists, and these skills are built on the leader's clinical ability. This chapter focuses on finding and harnessing metaphors and creativity. It is imperative that a leader sorts through the narratives to uncover the underlying problems, mapping out ways to resolve them. This includes being in active communication, staying focused on the long-term goals, and managing expectations all around. Art therapists have honed creative critical thinking skills and engage in self-care practices.

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