Building Bridges within the Culture of Pediatric Medicine: The Interface of Art Therapy and Child Life Programming

Abstract

AbstractThis article discusses the interface between art therapy and the parallel profession of child life. A collaboration between these two disciplines within a pediatric medical setting encourages optimal adjustment for patients and families based on a thorough perception of the individual child's psychosocial reality and illness. Art therapists must acknowledge and build on current literature, national policies, and programming related to the psychosocial needs of children and families during illness and hospitalization. Art therapists practicing in pediatric medical settings are encouraged to broaden their ability to use a wide range of art and play modalities to reach the broadest range of patients and families.