Abstract

Literature on the use of mirrors within drama therapy and what information might be gained when a therapist observes his client interact with his mirror image is limited. An overview of how mirrors are used within psychological research, psychotherapy and drama therapy will be presented. A comparison will be made between the use of mirrors and the use of photographs and video as self-image viewing tools within the creative arts therapies. Projective techniques and projective assessments that are commonly used within drama therapy will be outlined before describing and evaluating a potential new projective assessment that uses a mirror in individual drama therapy with children. Further directions for research and clinical work in regards to the mirror as a projective tool are also discussed in order to introduce professionals in drama therapy and other related fields to new, creative, ways and techniques to help better understand their clients and their needs.