Art Therapy on the Central Coast
Art therapy uses creative expression as a way to explore thoughts and feelings that can be difficult to put into words. We guide sessions to suit each person's own comfort with the creative process.
- Individuals & couples
- Approx. 50-minute sessions
- Central Coast, NSW
Using Creative Expression to Explore Thoughts and Feelings
Not everything is easy to put into words, and some thoughts or feelings can be easier to work through visually than verbally. DMH Support Services offers art therapy on the Central Coast, using creative activities as a way into topics that might otherwise be difficult to discuss directly.
Sessions are guided by a practitioner trained in art therapy techniques and don't require any previous artistic experience. This approach can suit children, adults and participants who find traditional talking therapy harder to engage with.
For participants also accessing disability support, art therapy can be arranged alongside other NDIS supports. Call 0424 110 824 to find out more.
What Happens in an Art Therapy Session
Sessions can take a number of different forms depending on the person and what they respond to best. These include:
Drawing, painting or other visual activities used to explore a particular thought or feeling. No artistic skill or experience is required.
Sessions adapted to suit different ages, abilities and communication styles. This includes participants who find verbal communication more difficult.
A mix of guided activities and open-ended creative time. The balance depends on what suits the individual.
Reflection on the created work, where relevant. This is approached gently and only if the participant wants to discuss it.
An initial art therapy session usually starts with a conversation about what's brought the person to therapy and what they might like to explore. From there, the practitioner introduces materials suited to the session's focus, which can range from drawing and painting through to other visual mediums.
There's no requirement to create anything specific or to have any prior experience with art. Sessions run for approximately fifty minutes, and can be arranged on an individual basis or, where appropriate, alongside other support services.
How often sessions are held is discussed and agreed as therapy progresses. Letting the practitioner know about any sensory considerations beforehand can help shape how materials and activities are introduced.
Frequently asked questions
What is art therapy?
Art therapy uses creative activities such as drawing and painting as a way to explore thoughts, feelings or experiences. It's guided by a trained practitioner and doesn't require any artistic skill.
Who is art therapy suitable for?
Art therapy can suit a wide range of people, including those who find verbal communication more difficult. It's often used alongside other forms of support, including disability and mental health services.
Does art therapy require any artistic skill?
No, art therapy doesn't require any previous artistic skill or experience. The focus is on the process of creating, not the finished result.
Arrange a session
Send a message and DMH Support Services will get back to you to arrange a first session.
Related services
- Sex Therapy
We offer sex therapy for individuals and couples working through concerns connected to intimacy, communication or sexual wellbeing. Sessions are structured around each person's own pace and comfort level.
- Couples Therapy
Our couples therapy sessions give partners a space to work through communication difficulties, conflict or changes in their relationship. We work with each couple's own situation rather than a one-size-fits-all process.