Wednesday 31 October 2012

framework quilt - avid shopper!

This is a cheat post lifted from my placement course blog, because I am still really busy. The task was to write about our practice framework, so I made a framework quilt. As you do. Here is the explanation:

I have been thinking a lot about this topic, but am finding it hard to actually write about, because the more I think about it, the more items I want to add to my trolley!

If I think back to how I got interested in social work (or human service work in general), one of the key factors is a strong sense of social justice, which was also a key feature of my art therapy training in England. In addition, since working with women who have experienced domestic violence, I have adopted a feminist framework, as I value the analysis of power relationships, and critique of patriarchal socio-cultural norms.

My art therapy training was steeped in psychoanalytic theory, and although this does not always impact on my work directly, it provides me with a solid foundation, particularly around the importance of the therapeutic relationship, and is the basis for the development of all subsequent therapeutic models. Of course I am also an advocate for art therapy and other expressive therapies, and I value the opportunity to share my creativity with others.

In my early childhood, I lived in a Jungian therapeutic community, which brings me to Jungian analytic psychology, and also to the importance of working with families and other groups, rather than with individuals alone. This led to an exploration of ecological and systemic approaches, as well as an appreciation of group work.

Once I arrived in Australia and started working, I was exposed to cognitive behaviour therapy for the first time, and although I had been taught to be sceptical, I found that it could be effective with some 'high-functioning clients' (including myself).

My preferred therapeutic approach is humanistic and person-centred:  I see this as being  more ‘client-friendly’, as it involves taking a non-expert stance. I am keen on working with strengths, and using narrative therapy. In working with families and children, I am strongly influenced by attachment theory and also neurological science, which is informing us about how the brain develops, and how it can be repaired after trauma, for example.

For an arty person, I am pretty keen on science, and I like research: I have completed a research Masters in the past, and I currently teach research to my art therapy students. I believe in seeking feedback from clients on an ongoing basis, which really strengthens the therapeutic alliance. However I am rather sceptical about evidence based practice, because it is really a reflection of what has been researched, not what is effective.

More recently I have learnt skills in Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, and resumed a long-forgotten daily meditation (mindfulness) practice, which I have also incorporated into my work.

On my recently finished placement, I have learnt a lot about social inclusion, and consequently also about myself, my comfort zone, and my relationships. I am pleased that there is always more to learn. I really appreciate the social work value of reflective practice, and the incorporation of both our inner and outer worlds.
Phew, have I forgotten anything? Probably, but that is going to have to be enough for now. My basket is really full…

more later (yes really. I have just finished my last assignment of the semester!!)

Monday 15 October 2012

Belinda's Walk





 
flowers for Belinda

There is no easy way to write about this.  Belinda and I trained in art therapy together at Goldsmiths College, London, in 1982-3. I found out yesterday, via Facebook, that she died early this year, on approx 1st or 2nd January in fact, of breast cancer. I knew she was ill, as when I last saw her in February 2010, at the Tate Gallery, (when I was in England visiting my father, who was also dying), Belinda was already in the secondary stage of the illness. It is very strange to find this out, so so late in the year. In Breast Cancer Awareness month, which is what prompted me to look on her home page, in the first place...

Oh, and the day before, I facilitated an art therapy workshop for a group of women with advanced breast cancer. I had felt some strangeness about doing this group, and some resistance. Twenty or so years ago, in one year, three of my friends, from different eras of my life, were diagnosed with breast cancer. Only one of them, I now know, is still alive. 






Christmas 1993, Belinda, Bonnie and Jim.

more later.