Donna Betts

Board President of the American Art Therapy Association and Research Professor in the Art Therapy Program at George Washington University

We may earn commissions for purchases made via this page

Book Recommendations:

Recommended by Donna Betts

Judith Rubin’s books feature prominently in my library, and this much-anticipated version of Approaches is a welcome addition. This book is a wonderful contribution to efforts to encourage the highest standards of professional competence in art therapy. (from Amazon)

The third edition of Approaches to Art Therapy brings together varied theoretical approaches and provides a variety of solutions to the challenge of translating theory to technique. In each chapter, the field's most eminent scholars provide a definition of and orientation to the specific theory or area of emphasis, showing its relevance to art therapy. The third edition includes many new chapters with material on a wide variety of topics including contemplative approaches, DBT, neuroscience, and mentalization while also retaining important and timeless contributions from the pioneers of art therapy. Clinical case examples and over 100 illustrations of patient artwork vividly demonstrate the techniques in practice. Approaches to Art Therapy, 3rd edition, is an essential resource in the assembly of any clinician's theoretical and technical toolbox, and in the formulation of each individual's own approach to art therapy.

Recommended by Donna Betts

Hogan offers an innovative and accessible contribution to the literature that challenges the way we conceptualize art therapy theory and practice today. The work’s relevance expands well beyond the UK its unique insights will inspire art therapists around the world. Hogan masterfully explores various theories in the complex but unified profession of art therapy, and weaves them together through the overarching framework of social critique. My own approach to teaching is changed because of this book. The concepts Hogan invites us to contemplate make this a must-read for students, educators and practitioners alike. (from Amazon)

Art therapists work with a range of distinct philosophical and theoretical underpinnings, but as yet there has been no single book to offer an overview of these theories. Art Therapy Theories provides an introductory, non-partisan overview of art therapy theories outlining the following therapy approaches: Cognitive Behavioural Art Therapy Solution-Focused Brief Therapy Psychoanalytical (Freudian) Art Therapy Analytical (Jungian) Art Therapy Gestalt Art Therapy Person-Centred or ‘Rogerian’ Art Therapy Mindfulness Art Therapy Integrative Art Therapy (the Group-Interactive Model) Feminist Art Therapy Art Therapy as Social Action Art Therapy as a Research Tool Each chapter provides a non-judgemental, yet analytical, synopsis of each approach. No detailed knowledge is necessary to understand the different approaches, as the book explains them in clear and concise English. Difficult terms and concepts are explained as they arise, and a glossary of terms is also provided. Art Therapy Theories is aimed at trainee art therapists who need to demonstrate that they have a grasp of theory, as well as a sense of how the theory can translate into practice. It will also appeal to seasoned therapists, counsellors and to a wide range of professionals in the mental health field.