Another Research Study On The TTAP Method from Finland

Hämeenlinna, Degree Programme in Creative Arts(HAMK)
Author: Tarja Heikkinen
Year 2010
Subject of Master’s thesis: Therapeutic Thematic Arts Programming
in psychiatric day centre

ABSTRACT

The aim of this thesis was to examine the impact of Therapeutic
Thematic Arts Programming, created for elderly people, when used in
Psychiatric day activity and to assess the usability of the method in
mental health work. The research question was approached from the
viewpoint of people recovering from mental health problems. The research
was implemented during twelve sessions of a psychiatric day activity
group. In this qualitative study the research methods used were
through observation and group interview, which was carried out
during the last group meeting. The theory of TTAP method was implemented
in this study and essential matters of mental health and mental health
rehabilitation as well as the groundings of art therapy were considered.

According to the research results the group’s experiences of TTAP
Method were positive and the method was regarded suitable for mental
health re-habilitation when the special characteristics are taken into
consideration in planning. The continuous process, where the chosen
theme was treated through various creative methods was considered the
benefit of the method. In addition, the group gained multiple experiences of
success. The activities strengthened both team spirit and enhanced emotional and social
interaction in the group. Through this pilot study, the development to apply the TTAP Method regularly to support the aims defined in mental health rehabilitation became an outcome to this research.

Further research could also be done on the effects of TTAP method on
Specific variables of personal empowerment and enhanced well-being.

Keywords: Therapeutic Thematic Arts Programming (TTAP), learning
styles, mental health rehabilitation, psychiatric day centre,
solution-focused, art therapies.