Art Therapy in Palliative Gynaecological Oncology: Clinical Value in Acute Care

A holistic approach toward providing medical, psychosocial and emotional support for women with gynaecological cancers is crucial especially in palliative care. The aim of this qualitative descriptive study was to examine the impact of art therapy when provided in an acute, tertiary care setting. Thematic analysis was conducted with the interviews, corresponding therapist’s reflexive logs and medical case notes of 12 participants who received art therapy. Results suggested that art therapy was valued by participants as a meaningful space to engage in emotional processing and as a self-reflection of their interpersonal relations, roots and legacy.