Title: An Art Therapy Program Aimed at Disrupting the Power of Ageism: Creating Awareness, Liberation and Reinvigoration

Dissertation Committee: Dr. Laurie Bonjo

Abbreviated Abstract: This dissertation examines how an art therapy program can disrupt ageism by empowering older adults through creative expression, critical inquiry, and community engagement. Grounded in Critical Race Theory, Critical Gerontology Theory, Critical Disability Theory, and Erickson’s Developmental Framework, the project positions older adults as cultural narrators whose lived experiences offer essential contributions to therapeutic, social, and political discourse. These theoretical frameworks illuminate how racism, ageism, and intersecting forms of structural marginalization shape the lives of ageing individuals, particularly those from historically excluded communities. Using a Utilization-Focused Program Evaluation approach, the study engages participants in reflective and participatory processes designed to surface personal narratives, challenge stereotypes, and strengthen agency. Through life review exercises, facilitated group art-making, and culminating exhibition, participants create visual and narrative statements that counter societal invisibility and resist limiting assumptions about ageing. The program emphasizes relational connection, empowerment, and critical consciousness as core components of therapeutic change. Findings from the evaluation demonstrate the potential of art therapy to foster emotional resilience, deepen social connections, and support liberation-oriented healing for older adults. This work contributes to the growing field of liberation-based art therapy and underscores the value of creative, culturally responsive, and critically informed interventions that center marginalized voices. By situating older adults as knowledge holders and advocates, the project highlights pathways to dismantle ageist ideologies and to promote more equitable and inclusive mental health practices.