Revealing intergenerational traits and self-compassion through therapeutic creation
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Keywords
Community arts counselling training, empathy, self-awareness, self-compassion
Abstract
Community arts counsellors work in the complex socio-cultural landscape of mental health care in South Africa, providing vital support to under-resourced communities amidst a shortage of mental health workers. Initially, the article intended to showcase the impact of group narrative art therapy on community arts counsellor trainees’ (CACTs) self-awareness and empathy, but the process quickly revealed self-compassion as integral in developing these qualities. I observed some CACTs’ natural inclination towards self-compassion, while realising that others needed to allow self-compassion to emerge more gradually. Using a reflective lens helped me understand and appreciate that enhancing self-awareness and empathy may assist CACTs in supporting clients effectively while fostering a compassionate therapeutic environment. A qualitative, interpretive approach with six CACTs was used, employing thematic analysis of artwork and personal reflections to provide insights into participants’ experiences during sessions. The group setting offered a shared experience, which enabled these CACTs to become aware of other perspectives, thereby improving self-awareness and empathy. Three case vignettes showcase moments where participants reflected on the creative process and expressed meaning through personal and familial narratives.
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Elize-Helé Kieser, University of Johannesburg
Elize-Helé Kieser
University of Johannesburg
BioElize-Helé Kieser is the Head of the Department of Visual Art in the Further Education and Training (FET) phase at SAHETI School. She has 17 years of teaching experience in creative and visual arts, technology, and life orientation. Kieser is currently completing her master’s degree in art therapy at the University of Johannesburg. She completed her Baccalaureus Technologiae in Fine Art (cum laude) in 2006 and a BA Honours in Art Therapy (cum laude) in 2022.