The Art Therapist Identity & Growth Mindset WHILE FACING Big Life Transformations PRESENTED BY: FARAH K. ELGHAMRAWY PRESENTED TO: PROFESSOR / DR.CAROLYN TREADON M.A. IN COUNSELING WITH CONCENTRATION ON ART THERAPY PennWest University Contents 1. Introduction 2. Purpose Statement 3. Justification 4. Key-Terms 5. Literature Review 6. Methodology 7. Results 8. Limitations 9. Suggestions 10. My word 11. Questions Introduction This heuristic self-enquiry explores the interplay between the identity development of an art therapist and the cultivation of a growth mindset. Through an in-depth analysis of my personal art journal, relevant literature, and peerreviewed articles, this study seeks to understand the dynamic relationship between professional identity formation and the adoption of a growth-oriented perspective. The Ripple Effect “We have all experienced the healing, self-awareness, understanding, and fulfillment that is possible in therapy. We conquered our fears of vulnerability and intimacy, confronted our demons, and learned to connect the dots. At some point in our therapeutic expeditions, we decided to take what we have learned and passed it on to others. It is known quite simply as the “ripple effect.” We have all seen how ripples work on water. One droplet creates hundreds of ripples” (Cahak, 2021). Purpose Statement This study seeks to demonstrate how one art therapist-in-training dealt with different life challenges, achieved growth, and developed a successful art therapist identity. Justification As art therapists, how can we use flexibility and growth mindset to adapt to major life changes and face challenges? During the process of change and transformation, how do our identities develop? How can we grow, heal, and develop our identities through our experiences? Key-Terms Personal Identity Personal identity explores deeper questions that come up concerning who we are as beings. In contrast, questions concerning our identity occur because we are physical objects, moral agents, aware beings, or living beings. Growth Mindset A belief system that suggests that one's abilities and intelligence can be developed with effort, learning, and persistence (Dweck, 2006). Self-Directed Art Therapy Self-directed art therapy refers to a therapeutic practice in which individuals use art-making to explore their emotions, thoughts, and experiences without the direct guidance of a therapist. Literature Review Essential Qualities of Art Therapists ( Self-awareness, empathy, active listening & being present, Respecting ethical guidelines, etc.) Person-Centered Theory (Key conditions include genuineness, unconditional positive regard, and empathetic understanding). Cultural Humility/Responsiveness: the 5 R’s model Reflection, Respect, Regard, Relevance, Resiliency -essential components for culturally responsive practice. Identity Formation. The concept of a wounded healer. Imposter Syndrome. Art Journaling. Self-Directed Art Therapy. Conclusion Reflection on the art therapist identity: Developing a strong professional identity is an ongoing journey that requires commitment to personal growth and professional development. Embracing change and growth: Emphasizes the importance of being open to change and continuously seeking opportunities for learning and self-improvement. Methodology Heuristic Self Inquiry Primary Subject: Personal and Professional Development Focus: My Identity development and growth as an art therapist. Influence of a growth mindset Aims: Explore identity development, reflect on growth mindset amidst challenges. Background: Childhood trauma, use of art for self-expression and healing. Data Collection My Art Journals Primary source of data. Contains written thoughts, artwork, and notes. Documents conscious and unconscious aspects of career development and personal growth. Peer-Reviewed Articles ART JOURNALS PEER-REVIEWED ARTICLES El-Duende Books & Literature Theoretical framework and background information. Important texts in art therapy, art, and psychology. Current research findings. Fundamental ideas related to growth mindset and art therapy. Supports insights from art journal and books. BOOKS &LITERATURE EL-DUENDE Creative and intuitive approach. Spontaneous writings and artwork during intense emotional or creative times. Reflects deeper, usually subconscious thoughts. Data Analysis 01 Immersion Full immersion in data, Familiarization with content, Identification of basic themes and patterns. 02 Incubation 03 Illumination Stepping back. Allowing subconscious mind to process the information. Identifying important themes and patterns. 04 Explanation 05 Creative Synthesis Organize data into coherent narratives, Link themes to conventional concepts and literature, Simplifying. Combine all data into a coherent narrative, Illustrate dynamic interaction between professional identity, experiences, and growth mindset, Highlight specific discoveries and interconnectedness. Results Theme 1: Childhood Trauma Results Theme 2: Loss of My Father Results Theme 3: Trauma & Abuse Results Theme 4 : Healing & Growth Results Theme 4 : Healing & Growth (continued) Results Theme 5 : My Art Therapist Identity El Duende El Duende My Vision Board The research underscores the therapeutic value of art in both personal healing and professional practice. The creative process has proven to be an effective tool for emotional regulation, selfawareness, and psychological resilience. In conclusion, the exploration of my emotional experiences and personal growth through art proved the transformative power of art therapy. The findings emphasize the important role of art in promoting healing, self-awareness, and professional development. Limitations While this heuristic self-study offers valuable insights, it is important to acknowledge its limitations. Subjectivity Highly personal nature of the study. Potential bias due to selfreflection. Difficulty in separating personal bias from objective analysis. Generalizability Findings are specific to my experiences. Limited ability to generalize results to a broader population. Individual experiences may not reflect those of other art therapists. Ethical Considerations Potential for self-disclosure to impact future professional opportunities. Maintaining confidentiality and professional boundaries. Need for continuous reflection on ethical implications. Areas for future exploration/research This study opens several avenues for future research to build on the findings and address its limitations. Future studies could include a larger and more diverse group of participants Helps in validating findings and enhancing generalizability Inclusion of different demographics, backgrounds, and experiences. I would like to thank My Mother My Father Prof./Dr. Carolyn Treadon My Partner Prof./Dr. Lorenzo De La Pena Prof./Dr. Mona Rakhawy All My Professors My Peers k n a h T ! u o Y