Description
Book SynopsisThe field of forensic arts therapies is dynamic and diverse, and so this unique volume covers a fascinating range of work. It brings together a collection of presentations given at FATAG conferences, case studies, research, new developments in theory, and explorations in the peculiarities of forensic arts therapies: art, music, drama, and dance. Therapists work with male and female offenders in detained in prisons or secure health care units, or sometimes with patients involved in probation or counselling services, victim support, and other services and institutions concerned with understanding the causes and effects of crime. The experiences described are often difficult, but also very rewarding for all involved. Arts therapy (in any of its forms) regularly has a profound and beneficial effect on the life of an offender. This thought-provoking and enlightening work gives an insight into how these skilled professionals have been a necessary part of UK forensic services for more than four decades.The Forensic Arts Therapies Advisory Group (FATAG) is a voluntary organisation which aims to provide support, advice and opportunities for continuing professional development for arts therapists working in forensic or secure settings and trainee arts therapists on clinical placement in forensics. FATAG provides a safe space to share difficult, complex and, at times, painful work not easily shared amongst a non-forensic audience.
Trade ReviewThis book is well overdue but the chapters evidence an authority in sensitive, creative and adaptive arts and psychotherapeutic approaches to the needs of an extremely complex patient group unable to access talking therapies. In this era in which CRES drives austerity in the NHS and prison service, the rigorous and in-depth thinking in this volume will enable practitioners to get creative and achieve clinical progression in offenders patients who would otherwise be stuck in the system; Estela Welldon. MD DSc (Hon) F.R.C.Psych.BPCHon. Memb. A.Psa.A. Founder & Honorary Life President. International Association for Forensic Psychotherapy Author of : Playing with Dynamite and 'Mother, Madonna, Whore'.
