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Real Connections

Art Therapy

What is Arts Psychotherapy Therapy?

Arts psychotherapy is a type of expressive therapy that provides a creative, non-confrontational alternative to verbal communication and counselling. Using visual art and other forms of expressive creativity to engage the body and mind as a means of self-exploration and self-expression can ultimately lead to transformation and healing.

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Suitable for adults and children of all ages, arts psychotherapy offers an alternative method of communication for times when words are not enough. Distinctive from more traditional, verbal counselling, arts psychotherapy utilises visual art, music, movement and play as a tool to access sensory, kinaesthetic and other expressive communicative opportunities to support empower and validate lived experiences. 
 

No artistic skill is required, with the focus on the creative process rather than the end product. 

Who is Arts Psycotherapy for?

Arts psychotherapy is suitable for people of all abilities, and adults and children of all ages.

 

Arts psychotherapy provides benefits for a range of mental health challenges and personal setbacks. These challenges can include:

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  • depression

  • anxiety/social anxiety

  • grief and loss

  • relationship challenges

  • family conflicts​

  • loneliness and isolation

  • burnout

  • stress management

  • life transitions

  • bullying

  • addiction

  • mood regulation

  • self-harm

  • trauma

Arts psychotherapy can also support those seeking confidence, personal growth and development. 

What are the benefits? 

Arts psychotherapy promotes physical, emotional and mental wellbeing by encouraging and strengthening connection with self and others. The creative process taps into our subconscious in ways we cannot do when we are talking. The creative art making process is therapeutic and can also offer new awareness into your own world.


Real Connections Art Therapy can support you to:

  • Build self-esteem and confidence 

  • Reduce anxiety 

  • Clarify goals and objectives

  • Process difficult emotions

  • Develop resilience and coping skills

  • Boost creative freedom and self-expression

  • Improve communication with self and others 

  • Bring about new awareness and personal growth

  • Balance life’s priorities  

  • Open doors to new possibilities 

  • Cultivate inner resources 

  • Foster self-care practices

Why Choose Real Connections Art Therapy? 

Soraya Pickard is a qualified Art Psychotherapist registered with the Australian Counselling Association (ACA). She successfully completed her Bachelor of Arts Psychotherapy Degree with the IKON Institute of Australia. 

Online Therapy training level one, successfully completed with  Australian Online Therapy Training (AOTT). 


Soraya draws on her learning and skills in art psychotherapy to journey with clients as they navigate various life challenges in a safe and supportive space. You will be supported throughout your healing journey to re-connect with your inner-self, develop confidence, learn to trust your own intuition, and draw on your own resources to experience a fulfilling and meaningful life. 


Real Connections Studio is situated on the beautiful Mornington Peninsula. Services can be offered in-person, online or home visits can also be arranged.


Real Connections Art Therapy provides services to self managed or plan-managed NDIS participants  . 

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How can I book a Real Connections Art Therapy session? 

To book your session, or to learn more about Real Connections Art Therapy, use the online booking tool or send us an email via our contact form. We’ll be in touch to schedule an initial consultation and answer any questions and arrange a date, time and session structure best suited to your needs. 

Emergency, crisis help or support 

Lifeline: 13 11 14
Suicide Call back: 1300 659 467
Mental Health Line: 1800 011 511
1800RESPECT: 1800 737 732

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