Over the past few years, I have been working with Diane Waller and Margaret Hills de Zarate to produce a Routledge International Handbook. This book brings together authors from over 35 different countries and offers a snapshot of the international state of the art in art therapy. The range of work included does not come from one school, theoretical approach, or one type of creative practice, but instead shows the inherent ability of the art therapist to see what is present and to adapt, flexibly and creatively, to meet the unique needs of people and contexts.
The chapters are organised under five broad-ranging themes—art therapy across the life cycle, theoretical frameworks, areas of practice, new developments, and policies—and are written by a diverse range of newer voices from countries where art therapy is starting to gain ground as well as a variety of internationally renowned practitioners and academics.
The handbook speaks to the breadth and richness in contemporary art therapy practice around the world. The case studies and examples demonstrate the ways in which art therapists are managing the challenges and opportunities in their socio-political context, drawing links to existing art traditions and supportive practices in their culture, and working to address contemporary challenges. This book is essential for students and professionals of art therapy, drama, dance movement, and music therapy.
