INTERVIEW SUMMARY

INTERVIEWS INTERVIEWS

For the purposes of this research, 3 interviews were conducted, with an art therapist, a music therapist and a dance therapist; all three studied their specialty at universities in the United States and are currently residing and practicing their professions in Puerto Rico. Ten questions related to mental health in general, mental health in Puerto Rico, and creative-artistic therapies were asked.

Some of these questions were: What do you think of the mental health system in Puerto Rico? Do you think that in Puerto Rico it is necessary to promote the use of other therapy alternatives? Are there spaces in Puerto Rico dedicated to creative-artistic therapies such as art therapy, music therapy or dance therapy?

Some conclusions: Puerto Rico’s mental health is archaic and traditional compared to the systems of other countries.

In Puerto Rico there are currently very few or no places that have the conditions to provide creative-artistic therapies. And if these therapies are given, they are in the metro area.

There are very few certified therapists in these branches; and it is not studied here in Puerto Rico either. When people decide to study these careers, they move to the United States and usually stay there for the best opportunities.

The spaces to provide these therapies should elude people without much sensory stimulation. They should be a cozy and neutral spaces. They must also have a free floor and inclusive furniture.

Urania Domínguez Art therapist Adriana Lizardi Music therapist Amarillis Vázquez Dance & Movement therapist