Q: What will we do in the 1:1 session? 

A: Usually we start with a brief chat or warm up exercise and then move into some art making before spending some time discussing what you've made and what it means to you. Sometimes there are adjustments made to images or new images created. The art therapist may suggest things to think about, write about, or create before the next session and then there is a closing exercise. It's up to you how much talking occurs during the session, the frequency and duration of sessions, whether you will take your art work home or leave it with the therapist for safe keeping, and what materials and art media you use.

Q: What should I expect from a group session? 

A: As above, we often start with a check in and warm up exercise and then move into some art making, before spending some time discussing what we've made. The therapist will usually suggest a theme or this may come from the group. Some weeks the art therapist will demonstrate an art making strategy or there may be a short creative visualisation/mindfulness exercise. The aim is not to make a specific end product but more to focus on the process. Participants are invited to show their images and share what it means to them, but only what they feel comfortable to share. The group and the therapist offer respectful feedback and peer support. There is usually a closing exercise. 

Q: Will you interpret my images? 

A: No, the person who made the image is always the expert on it's meaning.  Ideally, Art Therapy can help you to identify and strengthen your own personal meanings and visual metaphors.    

Q: What should I bring?

A: Just yourself and any homework you have been asked to do. All art materials are provided. If you are attending the 'Embracing our Imperfections Group', you will need to bring along your project. Please wear warm comfortable clothes & wear an apron if you are concerned about spilling paint/ clay on yourself. 

Q: Do I need a referral?

A: No, but it could be useful if you see a psychologist, psychiatrist or allied health professional on a regular basis, to ask them for a referral.

Q: Do I need to be good at art? 

A: Absolutely not! Art Therapy is for everyone! In fact, if you gave up making art for some reason as a child, art therapy can help you reclaim an essential part of yourself. 

Q: Is there a difference between "art as therapy" and "art therapy"? 

A: Yes! Both are extremely important and beneficial, especially in arts in health and the treatment of a range of mental illnesses. “Art as therapy” works on the principle that the act of creating something is therapeutic, in and of itself. If you’ve ever been fully absorbed in solving a creative problem or so involved in making something that you have lost track of time, or if you've become passionate about 'colouring in books for adults', online art tutorials or educative art classes then you will have  experienced the concept of "art as therapy". This movement towards adults reclaiming their creativity for themselves is necessary and empowering, but it is not exactly "art therapy".  Art Therapy also relies on the concept of inherent creativity, however the important difference is the addition of the therapeutic relationship with the therapist who has specialised training in art psychotherapy. Making and sharing art can feel vulnerable at times, especially if it relates to painful memories, complex trauma etc. This is why it is important to have the right kind of support in group and individual work. 

Q: How does a person become an Art Therapist?

A: In order to practice as an Art Therapist in Australia you need to complete a Masters Level Course at an ANZATA recognised educational Institution and become professionally registered with ANZATA. A directory of Registered Arts Therapists, a list of territory institutions that offer MA level Art Therapy courses and a comprehensive list of ethical standards is available at http://www.anzata.org There is also an article outlining the risks of art therapy being carried out, without adequate training.   

Q: Are you a registered provider for NDIS?

A: Yes! - We are a registered provider so NDIS recipients can access funding for Art Therapy under their plan, where it meets their specific and individual goals.  We can assist with report writing, assessment and individualised therapeutic interventions for NDIS participants as well as communicating with your other treating practitioners (with your permission). 

Q: What happens if I need to cancel my session? 

A: Our cancellation policy is strict and non-negotiable. 48 hours’ notice is required when you need to change or cancel a session (so we can offer this time to someone else if possible). ​Cancellation Fees will apply without adequate notice of non-attendance. ​

Q: What community organisations do you partner with?

A: We work collaboratively with WWDACT (Women with Disabilities ACT), Beryl Women's Inc., Adria Village, The ACT Mental Health Consumer Network, The Compassionate Friends ACT & Queanbeyan, Positive Partnerships & Carer's ACT. New community partnerships and Arts in Health projects are always welcome.