Shifting the narrative: an intersectional exploration of art therapy in the Caribbean

Abstract

ABSTRACT Art therapy is a global practice that is grounded in Eurocentric approaches. As a result, art therapy training may often lack inclusivity, perpetuate systemic racism and bias and fail to address and explore cultural practices and experiences of students and clients from and based in the English-speaking Caribbean. We believe there is a critical need for a more robust intersectional approach in art therapy training that considers cultural issues such as varying ethical standards and approaches, spirituality, disclosure reciprocity, the role of community and the integration of other art forms. We explore different elements of our training experience in the United Kingdom and the United States and adaptations we noted as necessary when we returned to practice in Barbados and Jamaica. Therefore, we strongly advocate for Afrocentric approaches to be incorporated into art therapy training with a strong focus on historical context, examining the impact of oppression, gender, class and socioeconomic status on the role and identity of the art therapist and the clients they work with. In response to this gap, we have begun to develop an Afro-Caribbean art therapy approach. We encourage institutions offering art therapy training to reflect on and strongly examine these elements and exhort art therapists working with Afro-Caribbean clients to consistently engage and practice self-reflexivity, and engage in appropriate supervision in order to work towards an anti-oppressive therapeutic style that resonates with Caribbean Identity Plain-language summary This article addresses the historical development of art therapy and its roots in European thought and practice and how this is reflected in art therapy training. This Eurocentric view of art therapy often neglects the cultural experiences of students and clients from and within the Caribbean. These omissions perpetuate systemic racism, lack inclusivity and fail to consider the multi-dimensional standpoints of students from varying cultural backgrounds, specifically those of African descent. Strong arguments are made by the authors, informed by their art therapy training gained in Europe and America and subsequent practice in the Caribbean, specifically Barbados and Jamaica. These arguments include the need for an intersectional approach that recognizes cultural issues such as varying ethical standards and approaches, spirituality, disclosure reciprocity, the role of community and the integration of other art forms along with the development of an Afro-Caribbean art therapy approach. Additionally, it is argued that Afrocentric approaches should be integrated into art therapy training with key focus and consideration for the historical context and impact of oppression, gender, class, socioeconomic status on the role and identity of the art therapist and the clients they work with. Art therapy lecturers, institutions and art therapist are implored to reexamine their training and therapy practice styles when working with students and clients of African descent. They are challenged to engage in self reflexivity and appropriate supervision in order to cultivate a therapeutic style that is inclusive and not oppressive.