faq

what is creative arts counselling?

Creative arts counselling is the use of the arts and creative processes in the counselling setting. It can be something as simple as a squiggle, a physical gesture or a thumb pressed into a lump of clay.

what is a typical creative arts counselling session like?

At the beginning of the session you may talk a little bit about an issue that is current in your life, or you may talk about a past experience that you cannot seem to move on from, or you may not talk at all and prefer to just “do some art” and see what emerges from that. Creative arts counselling caters to everyone’s individual needs from a counselling session. Most people talk a little bit, do some art and talk a little bit more at the end.

is creative arts counselling as effective as cbt?

Yes, perhaps even more so! During a creative arts counselling session, the whole brain is activated; to create new neural pathways, reduce emotional arousal, integrate experiences and achieve a higher level of functioning for an extended period of time.

do i have to be artistic?

No, you do not need to have any previous experience or any special ability or talent to receive the maximum benefits from the creative arts counselling session.

how does the arts help in counselling?

Using the arts in counselling, by a qualified and experienced trained arts therapist, helps to release tension, express difficult or overwhelming feelings safely, provide an opportunity to step back and view the problem or issue from a new perspective, and integrate experiences holistically.

how long is a typical session?

The counselling session is usually one hour in length for adults and adolescents. Some clients request a longer session, up to 1.5 hours. Children usually have a 45 minute session and a 15 minute debrief with the parents.

how long before i can expect to see results from the creative arts counselling sessions?

Everyone experiences creative arts counselling differently and therefore results vary. I have had some people say they feel immediate benefits after 1 session, other people may require weekly or fortnightly sessions over a period of months, sometimes years. It depends on the individual needs and how complex the case is. Most people report some benefits after a series of sessions.

do i have to do art if i don’t want to in the creative arts counselling session?

Certainly not. The counselling session is directed by you… I may suggest an arts intervention but no one is forced to talk or make art if they do not want to.

do you use any other techniques or modalities in the counselling session?

Yes, I do. For children I use a range of toys, art materials, musical instruments, games, and a sand tray. For adults and adolescents I might access mindfulness techniques, guided relaxation, focussing, sand play therapy, movement – dance and drama, voice, gestalt, specialist arts materials, and EFT in the creative arts counselling session.

are these sessions covered by medicare?

No these services are currently not supported on the Better Access to Health Care Plan. I do offer Private Health Rebates and concession rates for the unemployed or students.

how do i know if creative arts counselling is right for me?

My suggestion is if you feel interested, try it and see for yourself! If you would like to talk further about “Is creative arts counselling right for me” Contact me here