ATIC: Developing a recovery-based art therapy practice

Abstract

This article describes the development of Art Therapy In the Community (ATIC), a recovery-based art therapy group designed to meet the needs of a population of adults with severe mental illness who are making the transition from acute to community mental health care. After discussing the recovery approach and its relevance to our practice, the article outlines the six key features of ATIC. By using a mixed methods evaluation we seek to examine ATIC's effectiveness in increasing well-being and social inclusion and decreasing distress for our client group. Results indicate that ATIC is experienced as a helpful intervention for service users with severe mental illness, and that the group may contribute to recovery. In conclusion we recommend areas for further investigation and argue that recovery principles and art therapy practice are compatible.