When Lightning Strikes: Reexamining Creativity in Psychotherapy

Abstract

Creativity is paramount to the therapeutic process. This article explored the role of creativity in counseling and psychotherapy through a critical analysis of several key articles in a special issue of The Journal of Clinical Activities, Assignments, & Handouts in Psychotherapy Practice (L. L. Hecker, 2002). Implications for counselors/therapists and the future of the field are discussed.

Teaching a Course on Creativity in Counseling: Ideas for Counselor Educators

“…People may access emotions more quickly and more authentically through experience (Carpenter, 2002). In addition, typical responses that normally serve as protective features are not as readily available when clients are involved in an experience (Carpenter, 2002;Carson & Becker, 2004). Creative approaches often feel playful to clients, and this way of working may be unexpected and unfamiliar and may allow clients to feel more open (Carson & Becker, 2004).…”

“…In addition, typical responses that normally serve as protective features are not as readily available when clients are involved in an experience (Carpenter, 2002;Carson & Becker, 2004). Creative approaches often feel playful to clients, and this way of working may be unexpected and unfamiliar and may allow clients to feel more open (Carson & Becker, 2004). Other benefits of using creative approaches include offering a new energy to clients, which, in turn, might increase a person's sensitivity to themselves and others (Gladding, 2005).…”

“…In counseling, creativity can be used in various settings (Carson & Becker, 2004). For example, Bowman and Boone (1998) discussed the benefits of using creativity in a group setting to raise self-awareness and foster community development.…”

“…Still, there has been a call for more detailed descriptions for teaching the arts in counseling. In addition, bridging the gap between academia and creativity has been cited as an important consideration for educators interested in creativity in counseling (Carson & Becker, 2004). This article is an answer to the call for more detailed descriptions for teaching creativity in counselor education.…”

Artistic Representation: Promoting Student Creativity and Self-Reflection

“…Relying on Carson and Becker's (2004) suggestion that "people (including clients) get closer to their feelings more quickly and genuinely through experiencing more than conversing" (p. 113), the first author drew upon an exercise used previously with introductory psychology students. Expanding on the original exercise, the researchers hoped to link the two vital skills-creativity and self-reflection-into a single experience that would help solidify students' concept of how they might use both creativity and self-reflection to enhance their personal and professional growth.…”