Enhancing communication and emotional understanding in neurodiverse parent–adolescent relationships through creative therapies

Abstract

This study explored the effect of including parents in embodied arts-based therapy sessions with neurodivergent adolescents. The aim was to understand how parental involvement might influence the development of skills essential for mental well-being, including communication, boundary setting, and emotional regulation. Guided by an interpretive paradigm within a qualitative research approach, the study used purposive sampling to select three parent-adolescent pairs from the Gauteng Province of South Africa. Data were generated through group observations, artworks, journals, and semi-structured interviews, and analysed thematically. The findings indicated that participants in each parent-adolescent pair perceived the joint sessions as supportive and meaningful, contributing to improved communication, strengthened relationships, and enhanced self-expression. The embodied nature of the process created a non-intimidating therapeutic space that facilitated clearer expression of needs and emotions. The study concludes that parent-inclusive embodied arts-based therapy can enhance therapeutic outcomes for neurodivergent adolescents, particularly when opportunities for joint engagement are integrated alongside individual therapeutic work. The primary contribution of the study lies in demonstrating the value of collaborative, embodied approaches in supporting the mental health and relational well-being of neurodivergent adolescents and their families.