Thesis
The value and need for community-based art therapy
Master of Arts (M.A.), Drexel University
Jun 2026
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.17918/00011503
Abstract
Community-based art therapy is a therapeutic approach that employs diverse artistic and trauma-informed relational facilitation practices to address the specific needs of diverse communities. In community-based art therapy sessions, we strive to create a non-judgmental and inclusive environment that provides community members with a space for genuine self-expression. The shared act of creating art in a group setting guided by specific community-based art therapy principles yields benefits that extend beyond individual expression. The collaborative nature of arts-based mutual support sessions fosters interpersonal connections, promotes emotional well-being, and instills a sense of collective purpose among participants. Research has examined the effectiveness of combining structured support with freedom of expression in such environments, and relevant findings are referenced in this text project description and literature review. Increasing awareness of art therapy groups and their sustained benefits contributes to greater integration and cohesion among community members. The objective of this culminating project was to examine the foundational principles of community-based art therapy and its impact on diverse populations. In my graduate studies, I have learned that art therapy holds the belief that everyone is inherently creative, but that artmaking is not necessarily easy or accessible to everyone. From those perspectives, the importance of community-based art therapy practices lies in the group's artistic processes themselves and in how both the art media and the art therapist can facilitate self-care and community-care, empowerment, and a communal sense of purpose within the group and for each group member. The positive outcomes of community-based art therapy initiatives continue to grow, expanding therapeutic opportunities for individuals in group settings through guided, affirming, and structured sessions.
Metrics
1 Record Views
Details
- Title
- The value and need for community-based art therapy
- Creators
- Cassandra Jefferson
- Contributors
- Natalie Carlton (Advisor) - Drexel University, Creative Arts Therapies
- Awarding Institution
- Drexel University
- Degree Awarded
- Master of Arts (M.A.)
- Publisher
- Drexel University
- Number of pages
- v, 78 pages
- Resource Type
- Thesis
- Language
- English
- Academic Unit
- Creative Arts Therapies; College of Nursing and Health Professions; Drexel University
- Other Identifier
- 991022193394004721