The Use of the Creative Therapies with Autism Spectrum Disorders

Children with Autism Spectrum Disorders (ASD) demonstrate an array of deficits and excesses that require educational intervention. The editor of this book, Doctor Stephanie L. Brooke, examines the treatment issues relating to the developmental disorders attributed to Autism, specifically her extensive writings on Video Modeling. It has been proven that Video Modeling decreases certain problem behaviors including aggression, tantrums, and other off-task activities, and Doctor Brooke offers a theoretical and practical account of how to apply this procedure. Other chapters in this collection are written by renowned, well-credentialed, and professional creative art therapists in the areas of art, play, music, dance/movement, and drama. The book focuses on the use of the creative therapies with autistic children and their families, including: (1) art therapy and adolescents with Asperger’s Syndrome; (2) art therapy groups for mothers of children diagnosed with an autistic spectrum disorder; (3) art therapy with a nonverbal adolescent male living with Down Syndrome and autistic behavior; (4) art therapy and storybook formats to help individuals grieve; (5) creating a safe space for adolescents with autism; (6) play therapy in the treatment of children; (7) developing music therapy goals, objectives, and the structuring of music therapy sessions; (8) melody versus rhythm and their roles; (9) sound relationships in music therapy within a preschool setting; (10) dance/movement therapy; (11) enhancing social and relationship skills; and (12) the theoretical reasons and practical applications of drama therapy. Several case studies are included, outlining an individual, group, and family treatment format. This book is designed for professional creative therapists, educators, counselors, school psychologists, and many others within the helping profession.