Art therapy and pediatric hemodialysis : creating therapeutic space in an open unit medical setting

This research examines the fundamental qualities of how art therapy can help create therapeutic space within a medical setting. Therapeutic space is defined as the physical and psychological arena where the art therapist and client encounter the other. An art therapist working in a hospital is restricted by the physical limitations of the setting and often functions as a 'portable studio' who meets the individual where they are; psychologically and physically (Kalmanowitz & Lloyd, 1999). Art therapy's essential qualities of containing emotions in a tangible product, and working with visual metaphor help foster a space where successful therapeutic work can occur. These essential qualities are particularly valuable in an open unit medical setting where privacy and opportunities to contain emotions are limited. Art therapy's promotion of autonomy, expression of feelings, control and creativity is highly beneficial for children living with end stage renal disease (ESRD) receiving hemodialysis in a hospital setting. As the art therapy sessions occur during treatment, there is a unique opportunity for the child to be witnessed and supported therapeutically by the art therapist. Impediments to art therapy in this setting include limited privacy, confidentiality, and disruption to the session. Despite the impediments, art therapy's essential qualities help create therapeutic space for psychological support, growth, and the creative expression of children living with ESR