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!!)
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!!)
2 comments:
Really interesting post Claire, and I am totally blown away by your framework quilt.
thanks Amanda, it served a dual purpose as I also wanted to exhibit something in our art therapy network exhibition. I'm pleasantly surprised about the encouragement to be creative doing social work this semester, its been hard work but rewarding...and I love your binding explorations by the way. wood be good to catch up for real sometime...
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