‘I never get this space anywhere else’ – the development of Outside, Alongside – an NHS art therapy group outdoors

Background: There is a developing body of research concerning the benefits of outdoor art therapy, but little published concerning its use with adults with severe mental illness (SMI). This paper, co-authored by a group participant, describes the development of an outdoor art therapy group for adults in an NHS mental health setting. 

Context: Three cohorts of participants (19 people) took part in a 12-week outdoor art therapy group in an NHS Trust in the Midlands, UK. 

Approach: The group was facilitated by two trained art psychotherapists using a semi-structured, coproduced format which evolved through the development of the group. Natural materials were used to create images and objects and to facilitate group reflection and discussion. Principles of eco-therapy and outdoor art therapy were drawn upon. The group runs in all seasons, rather than just in Spring and Summer. 

Outcomes: Positive outcomes were reported in outcome measures and through service user feedback forms, poetry and verbal feedback. The following themes were identified: adapting and resilience, increasing accessibility, re-connecting with play, levelling out, connecting with others and self through nature. 

Conclusions: Outdoor art therapy appears to offer multiple benefits to participants and opportunities to expand the range of psychological therapies on offer in a way which is more accessible to those who find indoor spaces difficult, who may find groups difficult and who may benefit from working creatively outdoors. 

Implications for research: Further research is required, particularly on the benefits of outdoor group art therapy for adults with SMI.