Mental health care practices: Japanese and Italian art therapies

The scientific literature has demonstrated that art therapies constitute a valid tool for the treatment and support of mental health (Malchiodi, 2005; Albertini, 2012; Gravestock, 2021). My previous research examining the therapeutic and socio-identity functions of art therapies in Japan and Italy revealed that such healing treatments have yet to gain significant recognition within the Japanese socio-cultural context. Furthermore, the social stigma associated with them also has a deleterious effect (Kasahara-Kiritani et al., 2018). Nevertheless, art therapies, along with coaching and outreach practices, have constituted a pivotal element of Japanese governmental and social policies since 2011 (Yoshida & Ito, 2012). Moreover, the empirical evidence gathered suggests that the therapeutic practices previously examined in Italy may offer insights and contribute to the development of enhanced mental health approaches in Japan. This interdisciplinary research examines the potential and applicability of the Italian experience to Japanese art therapy practices. The theoretical investigation is supported by a substantial empirical component, conducted in collaboration with a Japanese centre based in Kyoto. This section entails direct observation of therapeutic sessions, interviews and questionnaires, and the examination of artefacts produced by the users. Methodologically, the scientific reliability of measuring the efficacy of therapeutic approaches is ensured by referencing the WHO parameters outlined in the IASC Pyramid (2007) for mental health and psychosocial support. It is anticipated that this research will foster greater familiarity and confidence in the implementation of non-pharmacological therapeutic techniques within Japanese healthcare.