Fostering emotional wellness and personal growth through the power of Art Therapy.
What is Art Therapy?
At its core, art therapy is a form of psychotherapy that uses art materials as a means of communication and self-expression. It can be used to help individuals, couples, families, and groups who are struggling with a wide range of emotional, behavioral, and mental health issues, such as anxiety, depression, trauma, grief, and stress. It allows individuals to express themselves in a non-verbal way, which can be particularly helpful for those who find it difficult to do so through words alone.
During an art therapy session, clients are encouraged to create art in a way that feels authentic to them. This could involve using a variety of materials, such as paint, clay, poetry, or collage, to create a piece that reflects their emotions or experiences. Sometimes, the focus is using art materials to calm, process, regulate, and balance the self and nervous system, without an end product or artwork.
The therapist may ask questions and gently explore what arises for the client to help them develop greater self-awareness and insight, improve their communication skills, enhance their problem-solving abilities, and build self-esteem and resilience.
Art therapy is a holistic approach that recognizes the connection between the mind and body and can help overall well-being, regardless of age, ability, skill, or background.
Hi,
I’m Lauren
Registered Art Therapist AThR (she/her)
My journey to becoming an art therapist began when I realised I could combine my passion for art, with my profound interest in human connection and relationships. Growing up, witnessing the stark contrast between those who overcame adversity and those who struggled often left me feeling powerless, and I had a strong urge to offer some form of relief. Art therapy has allowed me to turn this desire into something practical and meaningful.
Having been through my own therapy journey, I understand that it can be a daunting process. I often wondered how my therapist could navigate and understand all my experiences and complexities, through words alone.
That’s when I discovered the power of art therapy and how the process of creating allows you to say so much without using words.
Services
Based in Thornbury, offering outreach and/or clinic sessions.
Children & Teens
Individual Sessions
I work to establish trusting and non-judgmental relationships that respect the individuality of the children and teens I see. I use age-appropriate interventions to help them explore and navigate their world.
Adults
Individual Sessions
I work with adults to find the areas in their lives that cause them mental, emotional, and physical pain or stress and use art materials to unlock and process emotions.
Groups
Group Sessions
Group art therapy sessions are run throughout the year and can be tailored to focus on a group of individuals’ specific needs. Get in touch to find out when the next group is running.
I work with private and NDIS-funded clients. If you are self-managed or plan-managed through the NDIS, you are eligible to receive this service.
Ready to book a session or want to find out more?
If art therapy feels like the right choice for you or someone you know, please contact me to find out the next steps. Or, if you’re simply curious and need some more information before you decide, let’s chat!
You can reach me via email or by filling out your details in the form.
Email: hello@laurenbending.com.au