In this inspiring one-year course participants will gain a thorough theoretical and practical understanding of the field of art therapy.

In addition to the theoretical foundations, this one of a kind course also pairs students with a child / teenager for weekly supervised art therapy sessions over the duration of the year.

Aim

This highly experiential training aims to equip therapists, social workers, psychologists and counsellors with a thorough theoretical and practical understanding of working with children and teens using art therapy.

At the course conclusion participants will have sufficient knowledge and experience to combine art therapy and expressive arts as a therapeutic modality into their present work.

Structure

The course includes:

  • Theoretical foundations workshops

  • Individual supervised field work
     

Theoretical Foundations

The theoretical component of the course will be held over three weekends and will include experiential learning exercises, immersing participants in creativity and the opportunity to practice the techniques. Students will gain a thorough overview of the field of art therapy including:

  • Art as a therapeutic tool

  • Trauma (from a neurological, sociological and psychological perspective)

  • Trauma informed practice

  • Self care and vicarious trauma

  • Working within the family, school and preschool setting

  • Tools & techniques to use in a session

  • Cultural awareness
     

Art Therapy Kit

Participants will each receive an Art Therapy Kit which contains paper, textas, crayons, soft pastels, oil pastels, glue, scissors, tape, craft supplies, glue and Dreamy the Pillow – A unique therapy tool created by Shiri.


Individual Supervised Field Work

In addition to the theoretical basis of this course, each participant will be paired with a child / teenager and work with them weekly throughout the duration of the course.

Each session will be supervised by Shiri, and presents a special opportunity to gain practical experience using art and expressive arts as a therapeutic healing modality.

These weekly one-hour sessions will run throughout the school terms.  

No other art therapy course offers this live learning opportunity.

The children will be aged 3-16 and have experienced some form of trauma. E.g. Abuse, domestic violence, divorce, bullying, anxiety, low self-esteem etc… Their challenges will range widely, as they would with patients in private practice.


Assessments

  • Attendance of all workshops and individual weekly sessions. 

  • Demonstrated ability to utilise key art therapy techniques.

  • Visual diary and case notes kept throughout duration of fieldwork.

  • Written assignment demonstrating thorough working knowledge of art therapy theory and practice.


Qualification

Art Therapy – Theory & Practice for Professionals Certificate, and AASW accreditation points.


Fees

Total fee is $2,500 (incl GST) per term, which includes all materials, trainings and supervisions. Fees are payable before the commencement of each term.