Psychotherapy with People in the Arts (Nurturing Creativity) - 9780789014917

Learn to free creativity from the shackles of emotional conflicts!

This riveting collection of case histories illustrates the dark interplay of neurosis and creativity. Psychotherapy with People in the Arts explores the struggles of writers, painters, actors, and composers to reconcile their overwhelming need to create and the self-doubts, frustrations, and neuroses that block their potential.

In addition to ten inspiring tales of healing and self-knowledge, Psychotherapy with People in the Arts provides a solid introduction to the primary issues related to emotional disorders and creativity. It begins with a study of the notoriously reclusive and eccentric writer J. D. Salinger. Using both theory and case example, it shows how family history, present relations, and genetics can combine to impede the flow of an artist’s natural gifts-and how a good therapist can help unblock that creative power. It also includes a series of tests to diagnose blocked creativity.

Psychotherapy with People in the Arts explores such compelling themes as:

• dealing with racism and internalized self-hatred
• the conflict between commercial and high art
• anger and blocked tears
• the drive for an impossible perfection
• emotional alienation and sexual acting out

Psychotherapy with People in the Arts is a fascinating look at a complex and controversial subject. Though not everyone is a professional artist, every human being has creative potential that can be blocked by emotional disturbances. And every therapist, mental health educator, and artist will find rich sources of information and inspiration in this book. Visit the author's website at http://www.livingcenter.net