Clay Sculpture Intervention

The intervention that I would use in Mark’s case is clay sculpture. This treatment modality aims to help establish an open and positive therapeutic environment, identify themes to be explored in later sessions, verbally identify and express feelings, and enhance self-awareness (Lowenstein, 2011). When dealing with a child, it is essential to use a treatment modality that is also considered fun (Social Workers Toolbox, 2020). I will use clay sculpture because it is considered fun and has been linked with such benefits as releasing tension and energy, evoking emotion, channeling and providing sensation, and regulating emotion through creating form (Jaworski, 2020). Since it is also an individual intervention, Mark will likely feel more at ease while expressing his feelings. This intervention will help Mark feel more at ease and be able to externalize and express his feelings and emotions regarding the trauma he experienced under the care of his parents.

Mark might have difficulty expressing and sharing his emotions and feelings as an African American. Research shows that African Americans have low voluntary and intentionality to seek help from mental health professionals because they are pressured by friends and families to hold the idea that African Americans must be strong and have high distrust for healthcare practitioners due to issues of discrimination, racism, and mental health stigma (Taylor & Kuo, 2019). Such issues make it difficult for most African Americans to seek mental health help. Mark might be distrustful and have been forced to believe he should not share his feelings. By using the clay sculpture, it will be possible for Mark to find a safe space to create a therapeutic rapport and trust, which will enhance his ability to express his feelings directly. The sculpture that will be made will be expressive of Mark’s inner feelings and allow him to utilize creative arts to express himself.

References

Jaworski, E. (2020). Creating a Space to Externalize: Mindfulness-Based Art Therapy for Childhood Trauma, A Literature Review. Expressive Therapies Capstone Theses. 328.

Lowenstein, L. (2011). Favorite Therapeutic Activities for Children, Adolescents, and Families: Practitioners Share Their Most Effective Interventions. Champion Press.

Social Workers Toolbox. (2020). 30+ tools for 1:1 work with children (assessment, planning & intervention). http://www.socialworkerstoolbox.com/30-tools-11-work-children-assessment-planning/

Taylor, R. E., & Kuo, B. C. (2019). Black American psychological help-seeking intention: An integrated literature review with recommendations for clinical practice. Journal of Psychotherapy Integration, 29(4), 1-14.

ORDER A PLAGIARISM-FREE PAPER HERE

We’ll write everything from scratch

Clay Sculpture Intervention

http:// www.socialworkerstoolbox.com/30-tools-11-work-children-assessment-planning/

http://www.lianalowenstein.com/e-booklet.pdf

https://egcc.instructure.com/courses/24038/files/5714509?wrap=1

Mark is a 7-year-old African-American boy meeting with a Case Manager/Social Worker. Mark was detained by Child Protective Services due to abuse/neglect by his parents and is currently living with his grandparents. Mark has difficulty communicating his thoughts and feelings about the abuse/neglect he experienced.

Using the readings or additional research, please identify an intervention that could be appropriate to help Mark with expressing his thoughts/feelings. Please discuss the following:

*Why did you select this intervention?
*Discuss how this intervention would benefit Mark related to his presenting problem.
*Please discuss any cultural considerations.