Art Therapy and Substance Abuse

Libby Schmanke is an art therapist and addictions counselor with 25 years' experience using art therapy to address addiction issues. She has been on the faculty of Emporia State University's graduate art therapy program for over 15 years.

• Introduction. Preface: A Story. 1. Findings in the Art Therapy Literature. 2. Substance Abuse Theory and Addictive Substances. 3. Incorporating Art Therapy into Substance Abuse Treatment. 4. Assessment. 5. Group Work. 6. Feelings and Trauma. 7. Spirituality. 8. Diversity and Subpopulations. 9. Families in Crisis and in Recovery. Appendix A. Selected Techniques and Activities. Appendix B. Substance Abuse Resources.

This is the book I wished had existed when I started as an art therapist in addictions thirty years ago. A highly experienced practitioner shows how contemporary biopsychosocial-based theory can be grounded in the real-world complexities of practice. I learned new things here and my recommendation is whether you are new or already working in this field, read this book.