Defining animation therapy: The Good Hearts Model

Abstract

Abstract This article discusses ‘the Good Hearts Model’ (GHM), a programme of therapeutic practice that employs the process of producing animated films and allied materials. Though ‘art therapy’ in all its guises and diversity has a long pedigree, I argue that the use of animation (the GHM) offers an additional approach to traditional therapeutic strategies, and that it can also be used as a diagnostic, educational, crime-prevention and dissemination tool. Crucially, this discussion argues and proposes that like art, drama and music therapy, there is a need for a professional body for animation therapists, and inclusion in the Health and Care Professions Council (HCPC). For this to transpire I will propose a definition of ‘animation therapy’, and provide examples of its use in various contexts. The article will begin with a brief overview of the current context for art therapy and its conduct, followed by an introduction to the current situation regarding animation therapy in the United Kingdom, identifying how animation therapy is distinct, before engaging with the GHM and its potential within the field as an alternative approach to traditional therapy. There are many other creative therapies but for the purposes of this article, I will only discuss animation in relation to art therapy and within the wider paradigms of therapeutic practice. It will be focused upon the United Kingdom and the development of animation as a regulated therapy, with a specific attention to the GHM. It is also impractical to discuss all the research projects that have been undertaken over the years as this model of animation therapy has evolved, and hence a selection has been made to relate to the most appropriate arguments.