What is Art Therapy?
Art therapists work with people of all ages and backgrounds – you don’t have to be an artist to benefit. Art therapy usually focuses on the art process as it is produced rather than the final form. How you feel while making your art and what you learn about yourself is the most important thing. Art Therapy is both a therapeutic and diagnostic tool.
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We provide a safe, supported environment to help you:
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There are several different forms of art therapy available, depending on your needs.
Art as Therapy provides a safe space to explore "art for arts sake" in your own way. This can happen in an open studio setting with a little guidance or in a supported, structured class where you can learn different art skills. Engaging in creativity in this way can aid recovery as it helps you to focus, relax and express yourself.
Art Psychotherapy uses the creative process of making art as a safe way to represent your inner experiences, develop awareness and support personal change. Along with creating art, the art therapist may use relaxation and visualisation techniques, guided imagery, music, movement and role play in the therapy session. This can help you cope with difficulties and stress, and speed up the process of your recovery. The Art Therapist offers a safe, supported holding space to allow a person to process difficult emotional issues.
All types of visual art forms may be used, such as painting, drawing and clay work. Art therapy can consist of individual sessions or work in groups.
There is a professional registration process for art therapists qualified to practice in Australia according to the standards set by the Australian and New Zealand Art Therapy Association (external site).
Student Placements
CECAT accepts Art Therapy / Art Instructor students on placement as part of their professional training. Staff provides supervision and may direct students to a variety of learning opportunities, including:
- Assisting staff to manage our art bank and studios
- Helping to prepare exhibitions and order / maintain equipment
- Running groups for clients and developing new program ideas
- Learning how to offer different types of art therapy/art practices for mental health recovery
- Consultation with other professionals and engagement in supervision
If you are interested in becoming a student on placement with our service please contact the manager to arrange an interview. Placements are mostly offered to Art Therapy Master students or Art Students in training with the support of their training organisation. All students are required to have a police, working with children and health clearance and sign a confidentiality agreement.
Phone: +61 8 9347 6688 or + 61 8 9347 6687
What participants say about attending art therapy
"It's a good place to express yourself creatively... I like the atmosphere – it's good to relax. You don't have to try too hard to create something. You can experiment."
"It's a non threatening environment. I've got the freedom to do what I want. It's a non-competitive atmosphere and you get support. I suppose it's the common ground that everyone else has a mental illness and there's no judgement."
"I have a strong motivation to use this as a component in restructuring my life. The artistic and creative aspects are crucial."
"It's helpful for me to get out and be creative and to have social interaction. It's as the name suggests – a place to be expressive and creative."
"The art therapy and creativity has really helped me grow and learn new things about myself... it has helped me make the changes I need to get better."