Abstract

This research project examines how art materials in psychodynamic art therapy with elementary school children influence therapeutic alliance. The aim of this study is to underline possible uses of art materials that might help therapists in building, assessing, and sustaining the therapeutic alliance. The main topics of examination are: the use of art materials for building contact between client and therapist; art materials in relation to transference reactions and expression of affect; art materials as tools for interventions and establishment of the therapeutic environment in challenging educational settings; and the influence of the quality and quantity of art materials on the therapeutic alliance. The data gathered led to the conclusion that, while positive aspects of the relationship between these two components of therapy have the potential to provide possibilities for diagnosis, therapeutic interventions, movement towards the goals of therapy, channeling of affect, and the necessary safety of the therapeutic environment, those benefits could be offset by some challenges that are related to therapy in a school environment, the quantity and quality of art materials available, and the interpretation of transferential and affective expression in relation to the psychodynamic theoretical approach. The findings provide a summary of points that could be considered by, and be beneficial to, art therapist who are doing practice in an educational environment.