Evaluation of Photography Media and Methods According to the Expressive Therapies Continuum: A Systematic Literature Review

Abstract

The first successful photography experiments occurred in the early 1800s, and since this time photography has attracted artists, scientists, amateurs, and therapists who wish to enhance the treatment of their clients. Phototherapy was defined and established in the 1970s to refer to a system of 5 interrelated techniques used by any trained therapist or counselor within therapy with the goal of increasing insight and communication. A minimal amount of art therapists have also adopted photography; however, the use of photography in art therapy differs from phototherapy. In art therapy, the creation of artwork occurs within the session and is supported by the art therapist who has training in media and the creative process. A foundational theory in the field of art therapy, the Expressive Therapies Continuum (ETC), is utilized by many art therapists and art therapy programs to evaluate the appropriateness of media for the client. This study aims to bridge the gap in art therapy literature regarding the use of photography in art therapy and photographic media and methods by conceptualizing photography within the context of the ETC. Through a systematic literature review, the definitions and interventions of photo art therapy, the role of media in art therapy, and the ETC components and variables are explored in order to find the level of information processing in which photography is predominant. This study is delimited by its focus on the ETC, and limitations include the amount of found research on the use of photography in art therapy. Implications of this study include the therapeutic effects of photographic media and the need for further research and training with photographic and other untraditional media.