Art Therapy Is…A Film & Two Therapy Groups for those with Chronic Mental Illness

Art therapist Lore Baer engages the viewer in the experiences of chronically mentally ill clients in a studio environment where they meet weekly. In the sessions filmed for this video they are not only creating art, but are also preparing for an exhibit. Many of the clients have been coming to the studio for years, and Baer talks with them as they create and/or review their artwork. She validates their accomplishments, reminds them of past artwork, and makes observations which stimulate more questions and thoughts from the clients. The participants have a broad range of psychiatric diagnoses, including Major Depression, Generalized Anxiety Disorder, Schizophrenia, Bipolar Disorder, and Obsessive Compulsive Disorder to name a few. These artists candidly share the benefits of creating in art therapy. The artwork reflects a range of emotions and artistic growth. Excerpts from a staff meeting where one group member’s art is discussed by all of the other professionals and students who interact with that client are also included. The therapist is clearly fond of the group members, and is able to create a warm holding environment through her interested and supportive interaction with them.

Total Running Time: 1 hour, 18 minutes, 33 seconds