A Mindful Way to Heal: Discussing Efficacy of Mindfulness Based Expressive Arts Therapies in Treating Trauma Affected Adults

Abstract

The purpose of this paper is to analyze the efficacy of mindfulness based expressive arts therapies in treating trauma affected adults. I will explore the notion of mindfulness and its many benefits separately as well as its role in combination with the expressive arts. I will analyze a variety of multi-modal approaches including art, music, and movement therapy. This paper will provide a literature review of the benefits of these therapies as well as provide support for the use of mindfulness in each of these categories. Multiple case studies will be examined and reviewed based on their impact on the client’s trauma symptoms and their ability to promote mindfulness skills. I will also discuss the benefits and limitations of mindfulness based expressive arts therapies as well as that of traditional therapies to prompt future research.