2025 Bethany Callis Exploring Art Therapy in Alcoholism Detoxification: A Survey on Materials and Therapeutic Directives
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Join Bethany Callis, a dedicated Master’s of Arts in Art Therapy student at the Herron School of Art + Design, part of Indiana University Indianapolis, as she presents her critical research in the thesis video, "Exploring Art Therapy in Alcoholism Detoxification: A Survey on Materials and Therapeutic Directives." Bethany delves into the underexplored realm of art therapy during alcohol use disorder detox, a vital yet often neglected phase of recovery, to identify effective practices and materials.
Facing a surprising lack of documented art therapy interventions for detox settings, Bethany’s survey-based study uncovers the most prevalent directives, materials, and therapeutic approaches. Her research highlights the impact of reflection-based directives, such as the widely used bridge drawing, which empowers individuals to visualize their recovery journey, fostering hope and self-awareness. Process-based art-making, including mandalas, needle felting, and zentangles, also proves essential, providing emotional relief and sensory regulation amidst the intense physical and neurological challenges of detox. Bethany advocates for structured, two-dimensional resistive materials like markers and colored pencils to offer stability and containment, noting that overly open-ended approaches may overwhelm clients in early recovery.
Conducted at Herron (https://herron.indianapolis.iu.edu), this study exposes inconsistencies in current practices, signaling a pressing need for further research to standardize and enhance art therapy interventions. Bethany’s findings lay the groundwork for safer, more effective support, empowering individuals through creative expression. Discover more about Herron’s Art Therapy program at https://herron.indianapolis.iu.edu/academics/gdegrees/art-therapy/index.html and join the effort to transform detox care. Like, share, and subscribe to amplify this crucial research and support those navigating recovery!