Holding and creating: A grounded theory of art therapy with 0–5-year-olds

This research utilised grounded theory methodology to explore the current clinical experiences of art therapists who work with young children, formulating an art therapy frame that currently does not exist. Following a series of focus groups with art therapists who have worked extensively with 0–5-year-olds, additional written and creative responses were collected and further clarified the emergent theoretical frame. This theoretical frame posits art therapy as a modality that offers both creativity and structure, a dialectic integration that responds to identified issues at the early stages of life while combating pressures to over-standardise treatment.