Trauma In The Creative and Embodied Therapies: When Words Are Not Enough edited by Anna Chesner and Sissy Lykou
“I am a psychodrama psychotherapist which means embodying the problem is just as, if not more important that simply talking about it. Psychodrama places spontaneity and creativity at the centre of every therapeutic encounter and, when working with clients who have experienced extreme physical, psychological and/or sexual trauma these may have been frozen for years. This exquisite anthology brings together the work of therapists who, like me, believe in the power of music, dance, movement, theatre, art and the social compass to shift the most painful, often unspeakable parts of human experience into the spotlight with the uttermost gentleness. I dip into this slim little volume whenever my work leaves me feeling particularly ineffective or when I need a little extra motivation and inspiration. The different approaches, experiences and methods of other creative therapists rarely fail to reignite my own hope and creativity.
Perhaps most moving for me is David Le Vay’s chapter, shortened title ‘The Unplayable Piano’ which refers to jazz pianist Keth Jarrett’s astonishing, intuitive performance on an instrument pronounced more or less completely defunct. Child-centred Play Therapist Le Vay takes us on his own journey with Stuart*, a little boy deemed “unplaceable” by social services. Stuart’s powerful non-verbal communication is met by a therapist who understands that creativity and play come in a moment-to-moment exercise of being with, of acceptance, of attuning to who is there rather than leaping into an anxious pre-empting of what is “needed”. What emerges is extraordinary. Other favourite chapters include nature therapist Hayley Marshall’s on working one-to-one outside, and Chesner’s own contribution on psychodrama and its capacity to heal the “traumatic wound” through the process of classical group psychodrama – the fundamental yardstick of my own training and one whose capacity to transform I will bang on about until my dying day.”
The Blurb:
This groundbreaking anthology delves into the transformative potential of creative and embodied therapies in addressing trauma where conventional methods often fall short. Highlighting innovative approaches that harness the power of art, movement, music, and the body, it explores how these therapies can access the unspoken and facilitate profound healing. Through expert insights and case studies, the book provides a compelling look at the interplay between creativity, embodiment, and emotional recovery, offering invaluable tools for therapists, practitioners, and anyone seeking alternative paths to healing. It is an inspiring testament to the resilience of the human spirit when words are not enough.
