Art Therapy in Private Practice

This book describes parts of a developing social history of art therapy. – From the foreword by Chris Wood, Programme Leader, Art Therapy Northern ProgrammeA wealth of information and solid practical advice on establishing a small private practice in art therapy. – From the foreword by Joan Woddis, Vice-President, British Association of Art TherapistsThis is a timely book offering a wealth of good practical advice and information. Experienced art psychotherapists debate current issues in a lively and engaging way. A variety of theoretical stances, enhance engaging case material, illustrating topical concerns in the profession. Art therapists considering a mixed public and private practice or of moving into private practice, will find it of great benefit and use. Thoughtful, and engaging with current issues pertaining to the profession this book is a significant addition to the literature. – Caroline Case, Art Psychotherapist and Child and Adolescent Psychotherapist in Private PracticeArt Therapy in Private Practice is an eye-opening collation of the experiences and developing approaches of art therapists in private practice in the United Kingdom. Composed of chapters written by experienced art therapists on specific and important subjects such as liaison with GPs, working with children and their parents, culture and diversity, financial and time restrictions, support networks and research methodology, this book shows how private practice necessitates additional clinical thinking to develop and respond to the context, contract, meanings and symbols that emerge in private work. It is an important addition to the literature and will be helpful to art therapists in both the public and private sectors. – Brian Kaplan, MBBChA timely book addressing the opportunities, challenges, hazards and excitement of art therapy in the independent sector - a context relatively new for the profession and still widely contested by many committed to the principles of the NHS. James has brought together a rich collection of essays that explore and reflect on the specific concerns needing to be taken into account by current and intending practitioners. Identifying, understanding and being able to put theory into practice will ensure a safe and effective service in our rapidly changing social conditions. A must for current art therapy training programmes. – Professor Diane Waller OBE, Emeritus Professor of Art Psychotherapy and Hon. President British Association of Art Therapists

James D. West is an art therapist in private practice. He is a peer reviewer for the International Journal of Art Therapy and coordinator of the BAAT Private Practice Special Interest Group.