Nature-Based Art Therapy (NBAT) for Trauma
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Authors
Williams, Jeanine
Issue Date
2024-09-26
Type
Capstone
Language
en
Keywords
nature-based therapy , art therapy , trauma , intersectional , integrative , creative
Alternative Title
Abstract
Nature-based art therapy (NBAT) is an emerging and integrative therapeutic approach offering possibilities for trauma care and treatment (Berger, 2010). Critical aspects of NBAT include using natural materials for art creation, facilitating art therapy sessions in outdoor settings focusing on multidimensional connections between clients and therapists, as well as art and nature as co-therapists (Berger, 2020). Mindfulness mechanisms in NBAT can reduce bodily stress hormones and enhance emotional expression to indicate this novel modality as a possible method to mitigate common trauma responses (Baker et al., 2018; Wardle, 2023). This literature review explores seminal theories and current research on nature-based therapies, art therapy, and NBAT applied to trauma care. This literature review additionally explores cultural perspectives and accessibility implications of NBAT, including strengths and limitations of current NBAT theories, research, and practices. This capstone aims to advocate for ethical care and safety during NBAT integration into trauma care and in future research. The research question for this capstone is: How does nature-based art therapy (NBAT) support individuals with trauma?