Revealing intergenerational traits and self-compassion through therapeutic creation

Community arts counsellors work in the complex socio-cultural landscape of mental health care in South Africa, providing vital support to under-resourced communities amidst a shortage of mental health workers. Initially, the article intended to showcase the impact of group narrative art therapy on community arts counsellor trainees’ (CACTs) self-awareness and empathy, but the process quickly revealed self-compassion as integral in developing these qualities. I observed some CACTs’ natural inclination towards self-compassion, while realising that others needed to allow self-compassion to emerge more gradually. Using a reflective lens helped me understand and appreciate that enhancing self-awareness and empathy may assist CACTs in supporting clients effectively while fostering a compassionate therapeutic environment. A qualitative, interpretive approach with six CACTs was used, employing thematic analysis of artwork and personal reflections to provide insights into participants’ experiences during sessions. The group setting offered a shared experience, which enabled these CACTs to become aware of other perspectives, thereby improving self-awareness and empathy. Three case vignettes showcase moments where participants reflected on the creative process and expressed meaning through personal and familial narratives.