The Embodied Art Therapist: Theory and Practice for a New Paradigm is a groundbreaking volume, the first of its kind, that unites current research, protocols, and clinical methods in embodied art therapy. Designed to serve clinicians, educators, and students, it approaches the subject from theoretical, clinical, and practical perspectives, offering a comprehensive and accessible resource for the field.

Drawing on the voices of both practitioners and theorists, the anthology foregrounds the critical role of the body in delivering psychotherapy that is equitable, sustainable, and trauma-informed. Its chapters span a rich range of topics, including foundational theory, clinical practices, methods and materials, and approaches to supervision and pedagogy. Throughout, case studies illustrate the real-world impact of embodied art therapy with diverse clients, each with their own unique sensory and kinesthetic needs. Key subject areas include neurobiology, trauma, attachment, somatic methods such as Guided Drawing and yoga-based art therapy, as well as practice in natural environments, online settings, and the transpersonal realm. Training clinicians in body awareness equips them to attune to all kinds of bodies, making this volume an essential resource for art therapists, allied professionals, students, and educators alike.

I am delighted to share that I am a contributing author in this anthology. Together with two esteemed colleagues, Mia deBethune and Valeria Koutmina, I had the privilege of co-authoring Chapter 9: Embodied Methods in Online Art Therapy. My contribution focuses specifically on Virtual Reality and Art Therapy, an area that would have seemed unimaginable just a decade ago, yet is now a meaningful and growing part of the art therapy conversation. I am honored to help advance this evolving dimension of practice.

I extend my deepest gratitude to the editors, my co-authors, and all of the contributors whose expertise, dedication, and passion made this anthology possible. This collection reflects a shared commitment to shaping a more attuned, innovative, and compassionate future for the profession.
Learn more about the book at:
https://lnkd.in/eqfZv5Nd
A special promotional discount is currently available—please see the flyer for details.

Meet the Editors

Mia de Bethune