The COVID-19 pandemic has necessitated a rapid transition to online therapeutic modalities, including creative arts therapies (CATs). The study titled
Shifting to tele-creative arts therapies during the COVID-19 pandemic: An international study on helpful and challenging factors offers valuable insights into this transition. Here, we discuss key findings and their implications for practitioners.
Understanding the Impact
The research surveyed 1206 CATs practitioners globally, revealing significant shifts in practice. Over half of the therapists transitioned to online platforms, with many reporting a marked decrease in the use of arts during sessions. Notably, music therapy faced the greatest challenges, particularly in synchronous music-making.
Challenges and Adaptations
The study identified several challenges and adaptations:
- Technical Issues: Limited visibility of body language and physical cues, technical glitches, and the absence of a shared physical space.
- Therapeutic Process: While some therapists maintained the therapeutic relationship, others found it challenging to achieve effective therapeutic processes online.
- Creative Self-Efficacy: Therapists with higher creative self-efficacy adapted better to online modalities, buffering the impact of technical discomfort.
Effective Strategies
Practitioners adopted various strategies to enhance tele-CATs:
- Utilizing Digital Tools: Leveraging screen sharing, digital art tools, and virtual backgrounds to create a more immersive experience.
- Material Preparation: Sending art materials to clients beforehand or using available household items for therapy sessions.
- Parental Involvement: Increasing parental participation in sessions for children, which helped in engaging them better.
Future Directions
The study suggests several future directions for tele-CATs:
- Training and Education: Developing specific training programs for tele-CATs to enhance therapists' digital competencies.
- Ethical Guidelines: Establishing clear ethical guidelines to address privacy and security concerns in online settings.
- Research and Collaboration: Encouraging international collaborations to develop robust tele-CATs methodologies and share best practices.
Conclusion
The shift to tele-CATs during the COVID-19 pandemic has been both challenging and enlightening. By embracing creative self-efficacy and adopting innovative strategies, practitioners can continue to deliver effective therapy. To read the original research paper, please follow this link:
Shifting to tele-creative arts therapies during the COVID-19 pandemic: An international study on helpful and challenging factors.
