Expressive Therapy in Behavioral Health

Expressive therapy is an integrative psychotherapeutic process that offers a unique approach to exploring and communicating emotions, thoughts, and experiences through creative expression (Malchiodi, 2022). By leveraging various mediums such as movement, sound, imagery, and storytelling, expressive therapy taps into the power of non-verbal communication and sensory-based experiences. In this blog post, we will delve into the different types of expressive therapies, their functions, and the research supporting their effectiveness in behavioral health settings.

Under the umbrella of expressive arts, several types of therapies exist, including art therapy, music therapy, dance/movement therapy, drama therapy, and writing or journal therapy (Malchiodi, 2022). Each of these approaches provides a distinct avenue for individuals to engage in self-exploration and emotional expression.

Expressive therapies serve four general functions: self-regulation, co-regulation, exploration, and restoration (Malchiodi, 2022). Self-regulation involves managing stress responses and cultivating emotional, cognitive, and bodily well-being. Co-regulation utilizes sensory-specific interactions, such as tactile, visual, and kinesthetic experiences, to establish caring relationships. Exploration encourages individuals to delve into unfamiliar territory through implicit communication and self-examination. Restoration focuses on recovering a sense of wholeness, resilience, and self-efficacy, supporting individuals, families, or groups in their healing journeys.

Trained professionals, including art therapists, music therapists, dance/movement therapists, drama therapists, and writing therapists, provide expressive therapies in behavioral health settings (Malchiodi, 2022). These therapies are often integrated with other forms of treatment, such as talk therapy, medication management, and behavioral interventions. Expressive therapies offer individuals an alternative mode of communication, particularly for those who struggle with verbal expression or have experienced trauma. By engaging in creative activities, individuals can tap into their innate creativity, process difficult emotions, and develop new ways of relating to themselves and others. The holistic approach of expressive therapies addresses emotional, cognitive, and physical aspects, fostering self-awareness, resilience, and empowerment.

Numerous studies have highlighted the effectiveness of expressive therapies in various behavioral health contexts. For this blog in particular we look at how expressive therapy can help folks on the autism spectrum.  For instance, puppet making in art therapy has shown promising results in promoting emotional empathy, especially for individuals with autism spectrum disorder (Malhotra, 2019). By using puppets to enact and problem-solve emotional conflicts, individuals can enhance social interaction and self-awareness. Similarly, utilizing multiple art modalities in an expressive arts therapy framework has proven valuable in addressing communication challenges and social deficits associated with autism spectrum disorder (Malhotra, 2019). Dance/movement therapy, with its body-centered approach and tools like mirroring and play, has demonstrated positive outcomes in improving social skills and social attunement in children and adolescents with autism spectrum disorder (Berlandy, 2019). Additionally, the integration of music-based emotion-regulation skills alongside cognitive-behavioral therapy has yielded positive results in reducing primary symptoms of ADHD and enhancing adaptive emotion-regulation strategies (Zemestani, Azadbakht, & Storch, 2023).

Expressive therapy offers a powerful avenue for individuals to engage in non-verbal exploration, communication, and healing. Expressive therapies are another way to support individuals with behavioral health issues, such as ASD. These therapies provide additional tools to support folks in managing emotions, developing self-regulation skills, and fostering resilience. As we continue to explore innovative approaches in behavioral health, expressive therapies stand as an effective means of promoting well-being and facilitating personal growth.

References

Berlandy, H. (2019). Dance/Movement Therapy as a Tool to Improve Social Skills in Children and Adolescents with Autism Spectrum Disorder: A Literature Review (Publication No. 138) [Capstone thesis, Expressive Therapies]. Lesley University. Retrieved from https://digitalcommons.lesley.edu/expressive_theses/138

Levin, K. (2018). The Dance of Attention: Toward an Aesthetic Dimension of Attention-Deficit. Integrative Psychological and Behavioral Science, 52(1), 129–151. https://doi.org/10.1007/s12124-017-9413-7

Malchiodi, C. (2022, July 17). 4 Functions of Expressive Arts Therapy. Psychology Today. Retrieved from https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/blog/arts-and-health/202207/4-functions-expressive-arts-therapy

Malhotra, B. (2019). Art Therapy With Puppet Making to Promote Emotional Empathy for an Adolescent With Autism. Art Therapy, 1–9. https://doi.org/10.1080/07421656.2019.1645500

Zemestani, M., Azadbakht, M., & Storch, E. A. (2023). Preliminary evaluation of music-based emotion-regulation skills to augment CBT for adolescents with ADHD. Musicae Scientiae, 102986492211460. https://doi.org/10.1177/10298649221146050