Positive psychology, also known as the science of wellbeing, is the study of human flourishing and optimal functioning of institutions. Since the inception of positive psychology, a number of subfields have developed, for example, positive education, positive psychotherapy, positive art therapy, and positive arts and humanities. Scholars and researchers in the subfield of positive arts have commenced exploring the intersectionality between positive psychology and the arts, and how the two approaches, in combination, can enhance individuals’ mental health and wellness (Darewych, 2020; Tay, Pawelski, & Keith, 2018; Wilkinson & Chilton, 2013).
This conference practice presentation describes action-oriented and reflective arts interventions grounded in positive psychology frameworks that mental health practitioners can integrate in their therapeutic practice as creative vehicles by which clients of all ages can explore creative outlets, engage in the act of flow, express negative and positive emotions, identify character strengths, undergo self-awareness, reflect on sources of life meaning, and discover spirituality, even in the midst of struggle and adversity. At the end of the presentation, attendees will be able to define a number of positive psychology seminal concepts, describe positive psychology arts interventions, and apply the positive psychology theoretical framework in therapeutic practice and research.