Assessment of the Knowledge and Practices of Clinical Psychologists in the Use of Art Therapy in Accra, Ghana: A Qualitative Study

Abstract

Background: Evidence shows that art therapy has mental health benefits, and is a great way to express complex emotions in the recovery process. However, there are limited to no studies in the Ghanaian context on whether art therapy is used among clinical psychologists in the therapeutic process. This research sought to explore and assess the knowledge and practices of clinical psychologists in the use of art therapy in treating patients in Accra, Ghana. Method: The study employed a qualitative approach using semi-structured interviews to attain in-depth information about the use of art therapy among clinical psychologists in Accra. Thematic analysis was employed to analyse the data. Results: The results revealed that clinical psychologists had limited knowledge of art therapy mainly due to a lack of training. With the use of art therapy, the majority of the participants revealed that they have used a form of art therapy even though uncertain about its functionality and also had low confidence whiles using art therapy due to lack of training. The enablers in art therapy and barriers in art therapy revealed that training and resources were both the key facilitators and hindrances in the use of art therapy. Conclusion: Clinical psychologists are cognizant of art therapy albeit they have limited knowledge and training in how to use therapy. Therefore, the Ghana Psychology Council together with the Ghana Psychological Association can introduce art therapy in their continuing professional development (CPD) graduate training programs.