The Creative Journey: A Model for Short-term Group Art Therapy with Posttreatment Cancer Patients

Abstract

Cancer patients who have completed medical treatment are often left with unresolved psychological issues. The need for a readjustment of self-identity is often emphasized as the core goal of therapy with this patient population. In this article, a model is presented for a 10-week group art therapy program that is currently offered to posttreatment cancer patients at Memorial Sloan-Kettering Cancer Center, New York. The general aim, the framework of the program, and the structure of each workshop are described. The response of the 70 patients who have participated in the program has been very positive. The analysis from the questionnaires completed by each patient at the end of the program indicates some key concepts have emerged.