Exploring and Developing the Use of Art-Based Genograms in Family of Origin Therapy: Sharing the Potential for Understanding and Healing Through the Art Process - Softcover

Schroder, Deborah

4.40 out of 5 stars

5 ratings by Goodreads

Softcover

ISBN 10: 0398090718 ISBN 13: 9780398090715

Publisher: Charles C Thomas Pub Ltd, 2015

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Exploring and Developing the Use of Art-Based Genograms in Family of Origin Therapy was written to share the almost magical understandings that literally become visible when we use symbols, metaphors and imagery in the genogram process. The traditional genogram process is invaluable in helping people understand family history and who was present in generations of family life. An astonishing movement into depth of meaning happens when people are asked to create a visual image or symbol for their family members and ancestors. Suddenly, through metaphor, we can see the emotional impact and the qualities of relationships that these images and therefore family members hold. Unspoken or hidden family beliefs, patterns and rules suddenly surface from the depths of the art, freeing one from following along unconsciously and opening up the possibilities for choice as one moves into the future. The foundation of the art-based genogram provides abundant information about the family generational theme that is revealing and insightful for the art maker. It allows support for a creative depiction of the art maker's ancestral pains, sufferings, joys, celebrations, and life's viewpoints. This creative endeavor reveals therapeutic information that art makers can integrate into their current, present-day lives. Major topics include: (1) the historical use of the genogram; (2) the family of origin and unspoken or hidden family beliefs; (3) how to create art-based genograms; (4) therapeutic uses in individual therapy; (5) therapeutic uses in couples and family work; (6) how to welcome children to the process; (7) the intergenerational flow of special issues; and (8) a wide variety of uses for art-based genograms. Case examples are used to illustrate specific points throughout the book. This unique text will be a valuable resource for art therapists, counselors, and other mental health professionals.

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Review

Deborah Schroeder's little book takes the reader into a broad, and yet deeply personal, look at an artistic reinterpretation of the process of creating family of origin genograms. The integration of art therapy and genogram creation provides a safe and profound way to explore one's family of origin.

Schroeder has poetically constructed a foundation for art-based genograms by sharing numerous vignettes from her experiences with clients, students, and her own life. Written in an engaging, informal and intimate style, this book will no doubt be a valuable resource to those art therapists interested in the influence of families in individual development. --Bruce L. Moon, ATR-BC, HLM, LPC

Ms Summers in The Midwest Book Review, describes 'An extraordinary work of seminal scholarship . . . impressively well written, organized and presented. An especially unique instructional reference and resource . . . very highly recommended for academic library collections in general, and the supplemental studies reading lists of art therapists, counselor, and other mental health professionals in particular.' --Julie Summers/Reviewer's Bookwatch/September 2015

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