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? 

For children and young people, it offers a naturally creative and playful way to explore thoughts and feelings. The process feels safe and non-threatening, making it especially helpful for those who find talking therapies difficult or overwhelming.

For adults, creative arts therapy provides a gentle yet powerful alternative to traditional talk therapy. It allows for expression and healing through creative processes — ideal for those who may feel uncertain about starting therapy or prefer to explore experiences beyond words. What makes art therapy different from art classes?

Will the creative art therapist "interpret" my artwork?

Creative arts therapists use a variety of approaches, but they do not impose interpretations on your artwork. In a humanistic approach, the focus is on the personal meaning you find in your own creative work. You are the expert in your own process. The therapist’s role is to support your exploration and expression, helping you reflect on your work in a safe and guided way — rather than analysing or assigning meaning for you.

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?

In art therapy, the client’s trust is central. What a child or teen shares in sessions is kept confidential to create a safe space for expression and growth.

At the same time, we as therapists also value the relationship between young clients and their caregivers. If there are concerns about the safety or well-being of the child, the therapist will share necessary information immediately to protect them. This approach balances confidentiality with safety and care.

I am/my child is feeling nervous about coming to Art Therapy?

It's okay to feel nervous about starting something new, like art therapy. To help you feel more comfortable, here's a social story that shows exactly how you'll find us at Seabrook McKenzie.

How to find Kate - Social Story

Am I able to access funding for Arts Therapy?

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

If you've been affected by crime or trauma, you may be able to get funding for therapy through Victim Support.

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 can help cover the cost if you need support after a physical injury or have experienced sexual abuse.

What qualifications does an Arts therapist have? 

Arts therapy is a profession that requires at least a master’s-level qualification. Our team of arts therapists are all trained at Whitecliffe, completing extensive coursework and 750 hours of supervised clinical practice.