Exploring the Benefits of Art Therapy at a Confined Stabilization Program for High-Risk Youth

The use of qualitative narrative research methods and thematic data analysis are used to explore the benefits of bringing art therapy to Secure Services, a court mandated stabilization program for high-risk youth. Data was collected with a focus on documenting the youth’s experiences of art therapy and their perceived benefits. The thesis explores the perceived benefits and impact of art therapy through four case-vignettes, surveys completed by youth and staff, feedback gathered from clinicians, as well as personal experiences and observations of the art therapist. A thematic analysis of the data showed evidence that the youth had a variety of unique and meaningful experiences when engaging in art therapy at Secure Services. Benefits expressed by the youth include an increase in their confidence and self-esteem, emotional regulation and expression, connection to family and culture, and improvements in their overall mental health and stability. Additionally, youth appeared more engaged to the therapeutic process when taking part in art therapy, sometimes in contrast to traditional psychotherapy approaches. Further research on this topic will strengthen the use of art therapy as an effective approach for complex youth mental health, substance use, and trauma.