Gathering Ashes: Therapeutic Change as a Creative Act

Therapeutic change for the adolescent patient is a complex phenomenon that involves both patient and analyst engaging in transformative action. This article explores the ways therapeutic change can be viewed within a framework of creativity. Rollo May defines therapeutic change as the culmination of a creative act that requires tolerating existential anxiety and fear of loss. Facing the terror of our existential dread allows us to use our anxiety as a driver of growth and creative transformation. Using May’s work as a springboard, this article posits that viewing therapeutic change with the adolescent patient through a lens of creativity illuminates the elements of loss, renewal and growth inherent in the process of change. Imagination is a central part of this process, helping us envision and rehearse our future selves. Incorporating a creative perspective into the session room provides space for the imagination and a shared language and context to explore the elements that lead to transformation.