Use of Bridge with Path Drawings with Military Service Members Experiencing Traumatic Brain Injury and Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder

Abstract

This article introduces the use of an art therapy assessment, the Bridge with Path Drawing, for service members experiencing effects of Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI) and/or Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) during treatment at an outpatient clinic. Brief clinical vignettes describe the processes and outcomes of Bridge with Path Drawing Assessment for two service members. Bridge to Path Drawing aided service members with TBI/PTSD in discovering and disclosing thoughts and feelings through symbolic and metaphorical associations to their drawings. Service members shared meanings related to their senses of identity, their futures, the transitions to civilian lives, strategies to overcome obstacles, and purposes and meanings in their lives. Providers working with service members experiencing effects of TBI/PTSD and military-to-civilian transition found an art therapy assessment, the Bridge with Path Drawing, useful to explore patients’ meaning in life at an outpatient medical clinic on a military base.