FAQ
Art therapy is a relatively new healing practice, but its cultural roots date back a millennia. Early civilisations and indigenous cultures have long used dance, song, and art creation in their healing ceremonies, however, some of us are still intrigued by the idea of bringing spontaneity and creativity into the therapy space.
Below are some of the most commonly asked questions about my work and art therapy, but if for any reason you still require further clarification on any subject please do not hesitate to call me on 0481 258 118 or send me a message from our contact page.
Art therapy participants need no previous art experience because your creative capabilities are not what is important in this space. This is because the focus of art therapy is on the process of making and creating, not the finished product. Art is simply a tool we use in therapy as a way to explore whatever issue we are dealing with. The ‘art’ can be incorporated into the therapy session based on your personal preferences.
Art therapy doesn’t have to be all art all of the time.
Art therapy can help people feel better in a number of ways:
- It is a natural form of expression, especially for children
- It enables us to express our thoughts and feelings more easily
- It focuses on strengths and abilities
- It is accessible to more people than just verbal therapy
- Increasing our creativity can boost our self-esteem
- It can develop self-awareness and self-empowerment
- It can reduce stress, depression, and anxiety
- It can improve our interpersonal skills
- It enhances our mind-body connection
- It can increase our sense of meaning and help us find our purpose
Art therapy is very inclusive and accessible for people of all ages, abilities, and backgrounds. Anyone can benefit from art therapy and creativity is good for everyone!
Usually a session will consist of an opening conversation, the art experience and a closing conversation, however every session is unique and individually tailored to meet your needs on the day.
You will be invited to choose a focus for your session and the means by which you would like to explore any related thoughts and feelings. Sessions may include one or more creative expression such as, drawing, painting, sculpting, playing, mixed media collaging, journalling, writing, dancing, storytelling, symbol work, sand play and mindfulness. There may be times you just want to talk and other times you might not want to talk at all. Both are perfectly OK.
The role of the art therapist is to:
- create and maintain a compassionate and comfortable safe space
- provide a supportive and non-judgmental environment that welcomes surprises
- encourage a deeper exploration of the client’s creative experiences
- bear witness to the client’s expressive journey and life stories
- facilitate and support the client’s healing process
- offer a variety of arts-based activities
- know their limits and refer the client to additional outside resources if applicable
- uphold confidentiality
- provide all art materials
Currently I see both private and NDIS funded clients from my studio in Robina. Sometimes I am able to offer outreach sessions at your school, hospital or home if this is more suitable. The location of your sessions will depend on your situation and a decision will be made with you. This will be the same room each week and at the same time as much as possible.
As with other psychological therapies, confidentiality is an important aspect in art therapy. In almost every instance, the information you bring and share in art therapy, including your artwork, is private and confidential.
Knowing that you can say anything to your therapist and it will remain in the room helps you feel safe and builds trust between you and the therapist. For this reason, all therapists are legally and ethically bound to keep their sessions confidential and not share with anyone else what was talked about. However, there are a few exceptions to this rule. For example, if your therapist has reason to believe that you are a danger to yourself or others, she or he must break that confidence in order to make sure that you and/or others are safe. That can include specific threats, disclosure of child abuse where a child is still in danger, or concerns about elder abuse.
There may also be times when you would like your therapist to consult with someone else about your treatment, such as your doctor or psychiatrist, in order to coordinate care or clarify information. In cases such as these, your therapist should get your written permission to release information about you to the other party.
Art therapy sessions usually run for 50-55 minutes, although the first session may be longer and all art supplies are included.
Fees may vary according to requirements, location and time. Please contact me via phone or email to discuss. I welcome the opportunity to speak with you to learn how I can best support you and/or your loved ones.
It’s important that you direct your healing journey. There may be times when weekly sessions are more helpful and other times when sessions every other week provide you with the support that you need.
No problem. There is no obligation to continue if you feel Art therapy is not a good match for you at this time. In fact, if something doesn’t feel right I would encourage you to talk to me directly and ideally we can come up with a plan, a recommendation of an alternative therapy or a referral to another service.
There is no ‘one therapist fits all’ in therapy so please let me know and I’ll do my very best to help you.
Not at this time, sorry, however Art Therapy is covered by NDIS funding as an allied health service. We can provide services for individuals with self or plan-managed funds.