Attending Continual Professional Development (CPD)
I am passionate about my field, and attend as many workshops as I can so that I can be the best I can be with my clients. Attending ongoing workshops enables me to learn more skills, and is essential for keeping any mental health practitioner current in their knowledge, no matter how long they have worked as an Arts Psychotherapist. Any professional who cares about their client’s wellbeing understands that workshops are a necessity!
Recently I was fortunate to attended a workshop on “Children and Adolescents experiencing grief”. I found it so refreshing that creative processes were facilitated amongst Counsellors and Teachers as a technique. Given that I was the only Art Therapist present, it was wonderful that the creative processes that Art Therapists utilise were on offer amongst the diversity of professionals that attended that day.
An individual’s journey through creative processes during the workshop
An individual’s journey through creative processes during the workshop
Creative processes are a client-centred approach that utilises creative methods. These methods can include visual art, music, expressive writing, maps, picture cards, collage, sand and clay, just to name a few. These methods help community members to find clarity and new ways to move forward, no matter their age. The exploration of materials on offer empowers an individual to have a voice and express themselves in new ways. This is especially important when words alone can’t properly express the emotions shared or felt. The beauty of this method is that no artistic talents are required. There is only the open invitation to explore various creative experiences and imagination.
As an Arts Psychotherapist, my aim is to ensure my clients are always valued and heard. Art is always an invitation and I like to do art side by side with my clients on occasions. Embracing change empowers the individual to discover new understanding about themselves, while fostering an enriched quality of life.