The Art of Healing: Toi Māori and Psychotherapy

Abstract

This dissertation investigates the question: How does toi Māori support healing for those who engage with it? and explores the implications for psychotherapy in Aotearoa. Grounded in a Māori-centred methodology that upholds mātauranga and tikanga Māori, this research adopts a qualitative scoping literature review to examine academic and grey literature incorporating the concepts of toi Māori, engagement, and healing. Māori-centred research amplifies Indigenous voices by prioritising Māori ontology and epistemology, ensuring ethical representation of knowledge with authenticity and respect. Thematic analysis of the literature identified five themes: ‘Connection to Identity. Connection to Culture. Connection to the Collective.’ , ‘Being Tangata Whenua. Using Whenua.’ ‘Healing Whenua.’, ‘Shining Light on Wairua. Wairua’s Shining Light.’, ‘Make Meaning. Evoke Feeling.’ and ‘Honouring Tino Rangatiratanga. Honouring Mātauranga Māori.’ These themes affirm that toi Māori fosters healing for those who engage with it, highlighting the essence of healing for Māori. The findings contribute to psychotherapy practice in Aotearoa by advocating for approaches that integrate mātauranga Māori and support culturally responsive, holistic healing for hauora and wairua. This research underscores the potential for toi Māori to support the healing journey of Māori and to provide a culturally therapeutic approach for those who practice psychotherapy through a mātauranga Māori lens.