Frame of References

Psychoanalytic, psychodynamic theories and other resources

Psychodynamic approach
in art therapy

Transference & Countertransference

  • Examined through the therapeutic relationship and the artwork

  • Transference as a phenomenon when client may project feelings onto the analyst/therapist

  • Countertransference is the analyst/therapist’s own emotional response, whom differentiate her own patterns from those of analysand/client.

Defense Mechanisms

  • developed by Sigmund Freud on ego development

Free Association

  • Spontaneous image-making parallels verbal free association

  • Allows unconscious material to surface organically

Object-relation theory

  • A psychoanalytic theory founded by Melanie Klein, examine how early relationships are internalised and contributed to ego development, symbol formation and internal objects —the inner emotional and mental experiences of one’s reality.

Attachment theory

  • A psychoanalytic theory founded by John Bowlby and Mary Ainsworth, postulate early relationship with primary carer shapes and influences adult emotional patterns and attachment style.