Dr Gianna Carla Riccitelli studies the brain mechanisms responsible for perceptual, motor and cognitive functions in neurological and psychiatric diseases. She has extensive experience in neurostimulation, particularly transcranial magnetic stimulation, and is actively involved in integrating art therapy into this clinical practice. "Neurostimulation is a non-invasive method used to stimulate the brain to alleviate symptoms resulting from diseases or head trauma, such as those caused by strokes or accidents. In this context, art therapy plays a significant practical role. It can be used, for example, to motivate individuals who have difficulty staying still during treatment to engage more actively in their therapy sessions". Dr Riccitelli recalls, for example, the case of a patient with a head injury who had difficulty remaining still during treatment and who, thanks to listening to previously selected pieces of music, was instead able to contain her agitation.
Art activities can also bring benefits in the case of certain degenerative diseases, such as Parkinson’s disease, by improving some non-motor symptoms. "We have evidence demonstrating that painting and sculpture can effectively reduce visual and perceptual disturbances in patients with Parkinson’s disease. These individuals often struggle with poor movement coordination and may have difficulty initiating walking. Alongside medication, rhythmic entrainment-our natural tendency to synchronise movements with the steady rhythm of music-can help address these issues by enhancing the connections between the auditory and motor systems. As a result, patients are encouraged to perform their movements at a consistent cadence, leading to improved motor function".
Dr Riccitelli is therefore convinced that artistic activities can effectively complement traditional medical treatments, serving as a genuine form of therapy tailored to the different stages of the disease. The opinion of the USI lecturer is increasingly shared by other experts in the field: "There is a growing shift in how artistic forms are being perceived in medical contexts. For instance, in Ticino, a positive approach is being embraced through various music therapy projects designed for patients with Parkinson’s disease, along with numerous art therapy treatments available in pediatric wards.".
It is not only the patients who benefit from the effects of art therapy but also their entire entourage. Moreover, these treatments are inexpensive and do not require any special resources or settings. However, What is important is the correct training of the therapists, who must adequately know the "brain mechanisms involved in art therapy, to be able to plan personalised and effective interventions".
The complete interview with Dr Gianna Carla Riccitelli, edited by Valeria Camia and published in Ticino Scienza, is available at the following. .
