2277 - THE USE OF CREATIVE EXPRESSIVE ARTS AS THERAPEUTIC INTERVENTION TO ADDRESS THE CONFIDENCE OF CHILDREN WITH DYLSEXIA

Session: D16S009 - Counseling and Diversity
AUTHORS:
Talita Veldsman (Private Practice ~ Alberton ~ South Africa)
Abstract text:
Children that present with Dyslexia do not only deal with academic challenges, but struggle with self-confidence as a result of poor academic performance and a lack of support. This often leads to depression and self-harm. It is therefore vital to address these concerns in a therapeutic environment through a therapeutic modality that creates a safe space and allow a dyslexic child to uncover hidden gifts. The use of creative expressive arts as a therapeutic modality, has proven effective in addressing a variety of mental health concerns with adults and children. The presentation aims to provide an outline of creative expressive arts as a therapeutic intervention. It will demonstrate how the arts, in all forms, is able to offer dyslexic individuals the opportunity to express themselves, communicate and learn in ways that traditional language-based approaches cannot always accommodate.