"I would strongly recommend this book to trainees and qualified practitioners whose work would benefit
from using creative approaches. The theories are well thought through and clearly presented, being brought alive
by a wealth of case study and experiential material."
--Pat Havell in BACP North London Magazine May 2003
Publisher Web Site, October, 2003
Summary
Group Process Made Visible demonstrates the usefulness of the language of art in enabling group therapists and
their clients to understand group members' perceptions of constructs and realities. Externalizing difficulties
in visible form clarifies the patient's intended communication and provides the opportunity for constructive conversation.
In this book, Shirley Riley explains nonartistic persons' accessibility to expressive tasks that reinforce the
development of group cohesion and accelerate the establishment of a trusting and involved group.
The book introduces the reader to the approach and general philosophy of the use of art as an additional language
in group therapy. Through the presentation of a series of illustrations, the author exhibits the visual medium's
usefulness in treating patients who suffer from a broad range of disorders or who have experienced various types
of trauma.
The basis of Shirley Riley's writing lies in the personal and professional experiences explored in the case examples
provided in Group Process Made Visible. Throught the material offered in this book, she clearly defines structure,
rationale, and dynamics. The readalbe, informative format of the work provides therapists with access to a creative
addition to verbal therapy. This addition is not only effective, but it provides a command of communication that
is appealing to clients. There are no recipies for interpretation or laundry lists of activities. Rather, the approach
encourages a cooperative focus that leans toward a contemporary theory befitting in today's mental health world.