Participation Type
Paper
Session Title
Session 5.05 Folklore and Folkways
Presentation #1 Title
Utilizing Folk Art in Mental Health Counseling
Presentation #1 Abstract or Summary
The focus of my paper shall highlight the use of narrative therapy and folk art, specifically quilt making, in the provision of mental health services. Similarities between quilt making and narrative therapy will be provided as a guideline for best practices, particularly with use for a client from a rural or Appalachian region. Quilts often served the purpose of providing a source of inspiration for writing and storytelling. Humans have woven or spoken their stories far longer than they were able to read or write. The use of cloth stories in quilting is a traditional communicative art. One must examine the quilt as a product of rhetorical invention, providing insight to the relationship between narrative and cultural identity. The narrative of the quilt reveals the individual experience and ability to conquer adversity. In the same vein, narrative therapy examines the use of meaning and consequence as a foundation for stories and experiences discussed in therapy sessions. Narrative therapy explores the individual experience through story. Similar to quilt making, meaning and themes are the fabric of the story. Clients in Appalachia, due to the rich history of oral and visual storytelling, may benefit significantly from the use of narrative therapy. Utilizing narrative therapy will allow the professional to not fall into a stereotypical mindset. Incorporating folk art as a means of emotional expression could contribute to a greater sense of self-esteem. Appalachians display regional differences that influence how therapy and interventions should be addressed.
At-A-Glance Bio- Presenter #1
I am a recent graduate of the Eastern Kentucky University Counseling and Educational Psychology Masters program (2013). Prior to my time in the Counseling and Educational Psychology masters program, I served as a domestic violence victim advocate in South Central Kentucky. I have presented at professional of conferences on the local, state, national, and international level on matters related to social justice advocacy and cultural competency. It is my intent to continue to serve as an advocate in the mental health field, ensuring clients and services are provided in a socially just and ethical manner.
Utilizing Folk Art in Mental Health Counseling
Smith Hall 108
The focus of my paper shall highlight the use of narrative therapy and folk art, specifically quilt making, in the provision of mental health services. Similarities between quilt making and narrative therapy will be provided as a guideline for best practices, particularly with use for a client from a rural or Appalachian region. Quilts often served the purpose of providing a source of inspiration for writing and storytelling. Humans have woven or spoken their stories far longer than they were able to read or write. The use of cloth stories in quilting is a traditional communicative art. One must examine the quilt as a product of rhetorical invention, providing insight to the relationship between narrative and cultural identity. The narrative of the quilt reveals the individual experience and ability to conquer adversity. In the same vein, narrative therapy examines the use of meaning and consequence as a foundation for stories and experiences discussed in therapy sessions. Narrative therapy explores the individual experience through story. Similar to quilt making, meaning and themes are the fabric of the story. Clients in Appalachia, due to the rich history of oral and visual storytelling, may benefit significantly from the use of narrative therapy. Utilizing narrative therapy will allow the professional to not fall into a stereotypical mindset. Incorporating folk art as a means of emotional expression could contribute to a greater sense of self-esteem. Appalachians display regional differences that influence how therapy and interventions should be addressed.
