At Chatterbox Australia Therapy Services, we embrace the evidence-based benefits of Creative Arts in early childhood development. Recognizing the positive impact of activities like music, yoga, and dance, we integrated them into our therapy programs approximately three years ago. Initially offered individually or as part of speech pathology or occupational therapy groups, these creative sessions quickly demonstrated remarkable results. Witnessing significant growth in children's academic and creative abilities, both our staff and parents/carers were impressed by the effectiveness of these additions in meeting individual goals. Encouraged by these outcomes, we made a commitment to establish a dedicated Creative Arts team, collaborating with our existing therapy teams to offer comprehensive and innovative therapy groups nationwide.

Treatment through Art therapy

Art therapists are mental health professionals trained in both art and psychology. They work with children and adults of all ages using diverse art modalities for assessment and treatment. In a paediatric setting, art therapy focuses on the whole child and strives to support the healing process by offering patients and siblings a normal, developmentally appropriate activity for expression and engagement.

Art therapy is a natural form of expression for children and adolescents. Creating art helps people of all ages make sense of their thoughts and express their feelings in a non-threatening way. During art therapy sessions, patients are given the opportunity to make choices and gain control in an environment where they don't always have those options. Tapping into the creative process helps children, teens and their families work through the stresses of an illness and gives voice to unexpressed thoughts and emotions.

The goal of the art therapy program is to help children express themselves and to enhance their coping through the use of art media. Art therapists utilize art and the creative process to:

• Build coping skills, confidence and self-esteem

• Help patients process and express thoughts and feelings

• Offer opportunities for choices and control

• Reduce stress and anxiety

• Develop healthy problem-solving skills

• Support rehabilitation therapy goals

• Support and strengthen family bonds

• Engage in an enjoyable, developmentally appropriate activity

Our Creative Arts Academy at Chatterbox provides child and adults the opportunity explore and engage in Art therapy either individually or within a group setting. Particularly for our teens, Art provides an additional way for teens to interact and socialize, while encouraging their individual self-expression.

Contact us - Creative Arts Academy