RGU launches Therapeutic Photography course which helped Covid-bereaved group

The online programme aims to equip those working with people who may be vulnerable, marginalised, or reluctant to engage to improve their well-being and empower them.

Therapeutic Photography is the structured, guided practice of producing images to explore perceptions, relationships, interpretation of life events and societal issues with a clear, defined outcome for the participant.

Dr Neil Gibson, senior lecturer at RGU’s School of Applied Social Studies and Course Leader, has dedicated years of research and his PhD to this therapeutic practice and exploring the way it can be used to benefit individuals and communities.

The social worker has also authored a book on the subject in which he explored the concept of this practice. He also illustrated some underlying theories and provided case studies to demonstrate how it can enhance self-esteem, resilience, and self-reliance in a wide range of people, including carers, those with mental health issues, children, and offenders.

As part of his preparations in drawing up the programme, Dr Gibson trialled courses and delivered interventions with several diverse groups both across Scotland and worldwide.

Internationally, he has travelled to Kenya to research resilience, with communities using photographs to explore issues during periods of political upheaval.

Locally, he has recently worked with mental health organisation, Pillar Kincardine, to establish a therapeutic photography group for adults coping with emotional, social, or mental health challenges.

Throughout the pandemic, he also led a group for bereaved individuals, with those who took part reporting positive outcomes from the experience. With this new course, he is now looking to extend professional knowledge of this technique across the sector.

Dr Gibson said: “This is an exciting development in the use of photography as a therapeutic tool and answers a need from professionals in various practices who work with vulnerable people and are looking for new, innovative techniques to engage and empower them.

“Having used these techniques consistently throughout the last decade, it never ceases to amaze me the transformative and healing power of photography. I’ve even applied this approach with a group for bereaved individuals to help them explore the loss of a loved one to Covid-19.

The use of photography in this way helped each person look at the impact loss had on their lives and identity and what they could learn from this. Because the group consisted of people from across the globe, they were able to share personal perspectives but drew strength from one another in acknowledging similarities, challenges, and coping strategies. It was a cathartic experience.”