How does art therapy work?

Art therapy is a technique rooted in the idea that creative expression can foster healing and mental well-being. It’s about letting clients focus on their inner experience. The art therapist offers art-based therapy interventions that are tailored to the clients needs.

Do I have to be good at art to do arts therapy? 

No artistic experience or talent is needed. All you need is a willingness to experiment and explore. There are no rules for how to create art in arts therapy, and anyone can enjoy the benefits of the creative process.

Who benefits from creative arts therapy? 

Creative arts therapy works with clients of all ages. Creative arts therapy is often a great fit for young people as they tend to be naturally creative and playful. Two components integral to the art therapy experience, making the experience a non-threatening and gentle alternative to the talking therapies. Creative arts therapy is also beneficial for anyone who is tentative about the idea of going to therapy or nervous about sharing their experiences. 

What makes art therapy different from art classes?

Creative arts therapy is a form of psychotherapy that focuses on building a therapeutic relationship and trust with clients. The client and therapist use art materials as a way to approach self-understanding. An art class is more for creating recreational learning experiences designed to help participants acquire new skills to produce an art piece.

Will the creative art therapist "interpret" my artwork?

Creative art therapists can use a variety of approaches, just as counsellors or psychotherapists may utilise different approaches. Though the therapist does not interpret the artwork produced. In a humanistic approach to art therapy, the focus will be on the personal meaning you find within your own creative work, rather than an arbitrary meaning imposed by the therapist. You are the expert on your own artwork and creative process. The art therapist's role is to facilitate explorations of your work rather than to analyse or interpret it.

How many sessions will a client need to attend?

The number of sessions is determined by the client's needs, but most clients attend between 6-12 sessions. This is something that is constantly being reassessed.

If I bring my child or teen to art therapy, how does confidentiality work?

As a therapist, I am there first and foremost for the client. What your child shares with me will stay in the therapeutic room as it helps build a sense of trust for the child. That being said, I strongly value the relationship between you and your child. If your child is in danger in any way, I will share this immediately.

Am I able to access funding for Arts Therapy?

You may qualify for the Disability Allowance through Work and Income (WINZ) to contribute to therapy costs. 

For clients aged between 5-24 years, I am Hope can also help support your first two sessions. Visit their website to find out more.

ACC may also be able to provide funding through sensitive claims. Find out more here.

What qualifications does an Arts therapist have? 

Art therapy is a profession that requires at least a master's degree. Kate completed her studies through Whitecliffe in Auckland of which included 750 clinical hours. 

How do I book an appointment?

Find out more by contacting Kate directly.