Photography as a Therapeutic Art Medium According to the Perspective of Peruvian Art-Therapy Specialists

Abstract

Therapeutic photography (also phototherapy) is a branch of art therapy that is an alternative psychotherapeutic approach that offers various material and technique options. Therapeutic photography uses art to promote healing, and it is typically accompanied by a professional psychologist with expertise in art therapy. This study analyses how therapists from TAE Peru Institute and Arte-terapia Peru perceive the use of photography as a therapeutic tool. Although photography is commonly used in healthcare settings, its use in art therapy in Peru requires improvement. The aim of the study is to advocate for the use of photography as a psychotherapeutic tool in Peru. To achieve this goal, the researchers adopted a qualitative approach, utilising a phenomenological design, and conducted semistructured interviews with 13 therapists in Peru. The results indicated that Peruvian therapists view photography as a valuable, innovative and promising tool that facilitates the expression of patients' emotions through a different language.