AT Art Therapist Psychology & Counseling Principles 2

Question 1

A client with borderline personality disorder frequently shifts between idealizing and devaluing the therapist during sessions. Which defense mechanism best describes this pattern?

Accepted Answer

Splitting

Answer

Splitting is a hallmark defense mechanism in borderline personality disorder where the person views others as entirely good or entirely bad.

Question 2

When applying a trauma-informed care approach in art therapy, which principle is MOST essential?

Accepted Answer

Ensuring physical and emotional safety throughout the therapeutic process

Answer

Safety—both physical and emotional—is the foundational principle of trauma-informed care, creating conditions necessary for healing.

Question 3

An art therapist notices a client's artwork consistently features isolated figures with no background. Using object relations theory, this imagery most likely reflects:

Accepted Answer

Difficulties with attachment and relational connection

Answer

Object relations theory interprets isolated figures as reflecting internal working models of relationships characterized by disconnection or insecure attachment.

Question 4

Which counseling microskill involves restating the client's message in the therapist's own words to check understanding?

Accepted Answer

Paraphrasing

Answer

Paraphrasing restates the content of what the client said in the therapist's words to confirm accurate understanding.

Question 5

A client presents with hypervigilance, intrusive memories, and emotional numbing following a car accident. The art therapist should first consider which diagnosis?

Accepted Answer

Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder

Answer

PTSD is characterized by hypervigilance, intrusive memories, and emotional numbing persisting more than one month after a traumatic event.

(AT) Art Therapist Certification Practice Test

(AT) Art Therapist Certification Practice Test

AT Art Therapist Psychology & Counseling Principles 2