Part one of this module explores expressive arts therapy. It aims to define, discuss and recognise your own personal patterns in relation to art, play and creativity and begin to understand concepts of play, art and creativity as expressive arts within the counselling context.
It includes an introduction to creative arts approaches within therapy. Links are made here to Jungian theory of consciousness and symbolism, discussing these in relation to the key principles of creative arts and healing linked to humanistic principles.
The module will consider how arts and creative approaches may be effective with diverse populations in contemporary British society, because they are not dependent on the spoken word and are holistic. Ethical practice in the creative arts therapies will also be explored.
Part two of the module aims to develop your critical understanding of existential therapy, exploring its philosophical foundations and therapeutic applications, enabling you to evaluate its relevance to your own developing practice.
You will engage with the core philosophical influences of existential therapy, including the works of Kierkegaard, Heidegger and Sartre, and examine fundamental existential concepts such as freedom, responsibility, authenticity, meaning, isolation, anxiety and death awareness.
You will further consider existential therapy in contemporary counselling practice, reflecting on its relevance in addressing modern concerns.
The module will also explore appropriate interventions and techniques relevant to the specialist humanistic approach that are specific to OPT media.
