The clinical use of digital resources in drama therapy: An exploratory study of well-established practitioners

Abstract

This exploratory study examines the clinical use of digital resources in contemporary drama therapy by interviewing seven leading practitioners from around the world. The study surveys the digital resources utilized by both therapists and clients; how these resources are used; and how such use relates to drama therapeutic goals, values and techniques. Most notably, interviewees mentioned using Skype for therapy and/or supervision; the use of smartphones to cross the boundaries of the session (introduce or send out material); and the gaze of the camera as a fantasized audience. Interviewees commented on the therapeutic, dramatic, relational and ethical significance and impact of these practices, as well as on the ongoing digitization of society at large and its effects on their practice. The article further delineates the challenges evident in their experiences and proposes theoretical directions for further exploration.

Shifting to tele-creative arts therapies during the COVID-19 pandemic: An international study on helpful and challenging factors

“…Tele-psychotherapy in general attracted substantial interest already before the COVID-19 pandemic (APA, 2013; Berryhill et al, 2019 ; Poletti et al, 2020 ). The literature has also addressed the integration of technology and digital resources in CATs ( Atsmon & Pendzik, 2020 ). But apart from a few studies, research on the practice of CAT online is scarce ( Sajnani, 2020 , Baker and Krout, 2009 ), which is understandable given the reliance of CAT on tangible, embodied, and shared artistic materials and processes.…”

“…Online drama therapy with older adults was shown to reduce isolation during COVID-19 ( Kordova & Keisari, 2020 ). Other works have explored the use of digital resources in art therapy, such as virtual reality ( Kaimal et al, 2020 ), or digital resources in drama therapy ( Atsmon & Pendzik, 2020 ). These works point to the therapeutic potential of the tele-CATs as well as necessary considerations such as familiarity with and access to digital tools and environments and specific ethical requirements when working with art materials in the often semi-private space of one’s own home.…”

“Migrated onto the Screen”: The impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on the clinical practice of drama therapy

“…Spanning six continents and 19 countries allowed the research team to account for how adaptations of clinical practice might be affected by differences in state responses to pandemic conditions. In addition, we returned to seven practitioners interviewed in a previous study ( Atsmon and Pendzik, 2020 ), to obtain further perspective by juxtaposing their pre- and post-pandemic experiences with the online setting.…”

“…Prior to the pandemic, the incursions of drama therapy into the digital world were scarce and punctual – especially compared to art and music therapy ( Magee, 2006 , Magee, 2014 , Malchiodi, 1996 ; Orr, 2011; Kapitan, 2009 ). A preliminary study conducted before the pandemic ( Atsmon and Pendzik, 2020 ) shows that only a handful of drama therapists were practicing online (mostly supervising), and the use of digital resources was quite rudimentary. Despite some sparks of engagement in online practice, skepticism prevailed concerning whether it suits the drama therapy raison d'etre .…”

Crafting Life Stories in Photocollage: An Online Creative Art-Based Intervention for Older Adults

“…There is a growing body of studies on tele-CAT and the use of digital resources in the creative process [ 45 , 46 , 47 ]. A recent review of the literature described the advantages and disadvantages of art therapy within the digital space [ 47 ].…”