‘Walk a Mile in My Shoes’: stories of recovery in art therapy

Abstract

ABSTRACT Background The ‘Walk a Mile in My Shoes’ (Shoes) art therapy approach was developed as part of substance use treatment during the COVID-19 pandemic to give patients a platform where their stories could be told and shared. This paper describes this directive approach. Case examples explore the importance of addressing loneliness, acceptance and attachment, while fostering connection to a supportive community. Context Shoes was facilitated at an adult inpatient substance use rehabilitation unit and was available to all patients, upon request. Approach The Shoes approach is underpinned by a theoretical framework including attachment theory alongside theories relating touch and trauma recovery in art therapy. Outcomes The people who used the Shoes service fed back that they experienced a sense of acceptance and support and connection to a supportive community. Conclusions The Shoes project goals and outcomes align with similar treatment perspectives, focusing on self-acceptance and connection to a supportive community. Attachment, empathy and acceptance were expressed between the therapist and client, through the use of touch, proximity, and co-creation. Peers on the unit reinforced and validated connection and acceptance by interacting with Shoes. Implications for research Further research warranted includes: impact of touch and proximity in art therapy across cultures; long-term outcomes on motivation and connection; impact of therapist–client demographics on attachment and treatment outcomes; adaptability of project.