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The Art of Reaching Out

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Abstract

This paper examines the intersubjective processes encountered in a 10-week creative arts studio class. The objective was to explore how transference and countertransference, along with metaphor and symbolism, fostered meaning, which in turn could contribute to an understanding of the therapeutic process. While several themes emerged through the data analysis, the main theme extracted was the phenomenon of reaching out. Two vignettes were highlighted to indicate a connection between this theme and transference, countertransference, metaphor, and symbolism. An arts based method using improvisational movement illuminates and adds to the understanding of what it means to reach out. The paper closes with applications and suggestions for the field of dance/movement therapy based on the findings and personal clinical experiences.

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Correspondence to Rebekka Dieterich-Hartwell.

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Dieterich-Hartwell, R. The Art of Reaching Out. Am J Dance Ther 39, 179–188 (2017). https://doi.org/10.1007/s10465-017-9257-1

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