About art therapy
What is art therapy?
Art therapy is a therapeutic approach that integrates creative expression with psychological theory and lived experience to support emotional healing and personal growth. Through the use of imagery, colour, texture, sound, and movement, individuals can communicate when words are hard to find, explore and regulate emotions, process trauma, reduce stress and anxiety, gain insight, visualise new narratives, build resilience, initiate meaningful change, and strengthen identity - all within the safety of a supportive therapeutic relationship.
How is art therapy different from an art class?
Art classes teach techniques and focus on developing artistic skills. Art therapy uses creativity to support emotional wellbeing, self‑understanding, and coping skills. The focus is on the child, not the artwork.
They’re not learning to be an artist; they’re using art to connect with themselves in a meaningful way.
What are the benefits of art therapy over verbal therapies?
While all therapies have their strengths, art therapy offers a unique way to explore emotions and experiences that can be difficult to express in words. The creative process provides a safe, hands‑on way to externalise feelings, uncover material that may sit beneath the surface, and ‘try on’ new ways of thinking or behaving. For many children, this makes change feel more tangible and embodied than talking alone.
Artmaking also supports regulation, problem‑solving, self‑expression, and confidence. This can be especially helpful for children who are anxious, overwhelmed, neurodivergent, or still developing emotional language, as it offers a gentler, more accessible pathway into therapeutic work.
Does someone need to be good at art?
Not at all. Art therapy isn’t about making “good” art. It’s about expression, play, and finding safe ways to communicate what’s going on inside.
Do you interpret the artwork?
I don’t “decode” or analyse art. Meaning comes from the child. I might gently explore what they notice, feel, or imagine, but interpretation is always collaborative and respectful.
What can art therapy help with?
Art therapy, facilitated by a registered art therapist, offers a creative, non-verbal way to explore, express, and heal. It supports individuals, relationships, and communities across a wide range of needs, including:
Emotional and Mental Health
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Processing anxiety, stress, and trauma
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Supporting mood regulation and emotional resilience
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Navigating grief, loss, anger, and burnout
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Managing compassion fatigue and emotional overwhelm
Self and Identity
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Building self-esteem, confidence, and self-worth
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Exploring identity and self-image
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Healing the inner child and past wounds
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Supporting self-discovery and personal transformation
Neurodiversity and Cognitive Flexibility
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Challenging rigid thinking and promoting cognitive flexibility
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Supporting sensory integration and regulation
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Encouraging adaptive coping strategies
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Enhancing executive functioning through structured creative tasks
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Providing safe, expressive outlets for non-verbal communication
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Reducing overwhelm through predictable, rhythmic art-making
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Fostering strengths-based exploration of unique perspectives
Expression and Creativity
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Expressing complex emotions without needing words
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Releasing tension through play, relaxation, and joy
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Overcoming creative blocks and artistic self-doubt
Relationships and Social Connection
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Improving communication and relationship dynamics
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Enhancing social skills and setting healthy boundaries
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Feeling seen, heard, and validated in a safe, non-judgmental space
Cognitive and Physical Benefits
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Supporting cognitive and sensorimotor development
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Cultivating emotional insight and self-awareness
Broader Impact
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Addressing community concerns
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Contributing to societal and ecological change
What to expect in sessions
What happens in an art therapy session?
Each session follows a clear, predictable structure so your child knows what to expect. We begin with a check‑in, taking time to explore what has been happening throughout their week and any areas they may be finding challenging. From there, I will usually offer an art‑making prompt that relates to what they’ve shared or aligns with the goals we’ve set together. This guided creative process helps them express, explore, and process these areas of concern in a way that feels safe and manageable. We then step back and reflect on what has emerged. If it feels appropriate, I may offer some psychoeducation to support your child’s understanding of their emotions, experiences, or coping strategies. Sessions usually close with a grounding exercise to ensure your child feels settled and ready to move into the rest of their day.
How do you support neurodivergent clients?
Sessions are flexible and sensory‑aware. I adapt the environment, materials, and communication style to suit each person’s needs, strengths, and ways of processing the world.
What if someone doesn’t want to talk?
That’s completely okay. Art therapy gives people many ways to express themselves without relying on words. Talking is always an invitation, never an expectation.
What happens if big feelings come up?
Big feelings are welcome here. I support clients to notice what’s happening, find grounding, and return to a place of safety. We move gently and never push past their capacity.
How will I know if art therapy is helping?
Progress often shows up in small, meaningful shifts: confidence, emotional language, regulation, problem‑solving, or changes in how someone relates to others. I check in regularly so we can notice these changes together.
Parent consultations
What are parent consultations?
These sessions offer space for parents to explore concerns, understand their child’s needs, and learn strategies that support emotional wellbeing at home.
When might a parent session be recommended?
Parent consultations can be helpful when a child is struggling to engage, when family dynamics are shifting, or when parents want guidance around behaviour, regulation, or emotional support.
How do parent consultations support the child?
Supporting the parent often strengthens the child’s progress. These sessions help create consistency, understanding, and shared language across home and therapy.
How are parent consultations different from child sessions?
Parent sessions focus on your experiences, questions, and strategies — not on artmaking or the child’s confidential material.
Getting started
What happens in the first session?
The first session is with the parent or caregiver only (unless your child is over 16, in which case they are welcome to attend as well). This time allows me to get to know you, understand your concerns, and gather any relevant background information. It also gives you the chance to get a sense of me, whether I feel like a good fit for your child, and whether the way I work aligns with what your family needs.
How do we set goals?
Goals are shaped together, with you, your child (when appropriate), and any other supports involved. They’re strengths‑based, realistic, and reviewed as your child grows. The parent‑only first session helps us begin this process with clarity and care.
Can I be in the session with my child?
In your child’s first session, you’re welcome to come in for introductions and to help them settle. After that, I will kindly ask you to wait in the waiting area so your child has space to build their own relationship with me and the creative process. If your child is uncomfortable separating, we can work out a gradual approach that supports them to feel safe and confident.
What ages is art therapy suitable for?
Art therapy is helpful for children, teens, and adults. I adapt the approach to suit developmental stage, interests, and needs.
What if someone is reluctant to participate?
We move slowly. Sometimes people need time to warm up, build trust, or find the right way to engage. There is always a gentle path in.
Privacy & Boundaries
What do you share with parents?
I share themes, progress, and general observations, but I protect your child’s privacy. Specific details of their artwork or conversations stay confidential unless there is a safety concern.
How does confidentiality work?
Confidentiality is maintained for all clients, with exceptions only for safety or legal requirements.
Do you work with schools or other professionals?
Yes, with your consent. Collaboration can help create consistent support across home, school, and therapy.
Can I see the artwork my child makes in sessions?
In art therapy, the artwork becomes part of the therapeutic conversation, a form of communication in itself. Because of this, it is included in the confidentiality agreement and can only be viewed with the child’s consent. Please avoid pressuring your child to show you their art. For many children, this can feel similar to being asked to share everything they talked about in the session. If your child chooses to share, it will be in their own time and in a way that feels safe for them.
Fees & Practical info
What is the cost per session?
Each session is $140. This covers all materials, preparation, and the therapeutic work that happens both within and around the session.
Where are sessions held?
I offer sessions across several locations in Auckland to meet the needs of my clients. You can view available times and choose the location that works best for you through the bookings page. While I do my best to offer disability‑friendly spaces, a few locations have accessibility limitations. You can check these details when booking to find the space that best suits your needs.
Do we need to bring anything?
No, all materials are provided. Just bring your child as they are.
Can I pay with Carer Support?
Yes, my therapeutic services align with Carer Support funding. You are welcome to pay for sessions and then claim back the cost, depending on the level of support your child has been allocated. I will provide a receipt that clearly states the service provided so you can submit it with your claim.
What is your cancellation policy?
If you cancel more than 24 hours before your session, your deposit will be refunded. If you cancel within 24 hours, the deposit (50% of the session fee) is non‑refundable, as the time has been set aside specifically for you or your child
