Eikonotherapy
Healing Through Iconographic Creation
Eikonotherapy is a therapeutic approach that uses the creation of Byzantine icons to promote emotional, psychological, and spiritual healing. Developed by Aleksandar Tesanovic, this method stems from his exploration of the psychological impact of religious art and the act of creating sacred imagery. It is a multifaceted process that combines iconography, prayer, and therapeutic practices, offering a holistic approach to healing the mind and spirit.
The origins of Eikonotherapy trace back to Tesanovic’s academic and personal research into the intersection of art, Eastern Orthodox tradition, and psychology. Originally conceived as an educational-artistic project during his tenure as a psychology assistant at Arizona State University, the project aimed to investigate how the process of icon creation, ie. Eikonolexia could affect mental well-being. Over time, the concept evolved beyond its academic roots, shaping Eikonotherapy into a structured approach aimed at fostering emotional balance, psychological insight, and spiritual renewal through the sacred practice of iconography.
Unlike Eikonolexia, which focuses primarily on the artistic aspect of icon creation or Scriptform, Eikonotherapy is fundamentally therapeutic. The process guides individuals through self-reflection, emotional release, and spiritual introspection as they engage in the creation of icons. This method is beneficial not only for those who wish to learn iconography but also for those looking for psychological healing or a deeper spiritual connection.
The process of Eikonotherapy is both introspective and transformative, allowing individuals to confront emotional trauma, work through psychological struggles, and achieve personal clarity. Participants are not required to have artistic skills; rather, they are encouraged to engage with the therapeutic aspects of the creative process. The act of making an icon becomes a symbolic journey of healing, with each brushstroke or inscription serving as a means of emotional release and spiritual reflection.
Through Eikonotherapy, the creation of holy images becomes a therapeutic ritual. The symbolism embedded in the iconography, combined with the prayerful meditative process, allows individuals to confront their emotions in a safe and sacred space. This makes Eikonotherapy particularly useful in settings where expressive arts therapy, spiritual counseling, or healing through art are integrated into mental health and emotional well-being practices.
