A practical, evidence-based and self paced course for Occupational Therapists ready to integrate expressive arts into their mental health or psychosocial practice; no art experience required.
The arts have long been used within Occupational Therapy practice, however our approach to implementing therapeutic art approaches has evolved from arts and crafts activities, to allowing expressive art approaches to enrich the psychosocial therapy process. Expressive Art techniques that are integrated into occupational therapy practice allow for an added layer of understanding and growth within OT information gathering and intervention sessions.
Occupational Therapy has and is progressing to adapt to deviations from the medical model, as creative approaches to Occupational Therapy practice continue to prove beneficial to bridging gaps in communication, self exploration and skill building.
This training is designed for OTs who are:
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Mental health and psychosocial OTs
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OTs working with clients who have difficulty expressing themselves verbally
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OTs interested in creative, client-centred practice
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OTs looking to safely integrate art techniques while staying within scope
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OTs supporting neurodivergent, trauma-impacted, or emotionally dysregulated clients
Following the completion of this training, participants will know:
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the difference between fine arts and expressive art approaches
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the history of art within Occupational Therapy practice
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an introduction to art therapy including the benefits for clients
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how to use art based approaches to address a variety of Occupational Performance Issues
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how to build creative confidence as a therapist
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ethical considerations and referral pathways to art therapy
Course features:
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8 core modules
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Downloadable workbook + intervention planning tools
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Printable art activity guides for OT sessions
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Real-world case studies and reflections
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Lifetime access + certificate of completion
Foundations of Creativity in Occupational Therapy
Modalities and Media
Introduction to Art Therapy & Expressive Arts
Research & OT Models for Expressive Practice
Intervention Planning & Delivery
Integration & Reflective Practice
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Do I need to be good at art? (No! This is about process, not product.)
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Is this a certified art therapy qualification? (No. This course stays within OT scope and includes clear referral pathways.)
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Can I use these techniques with children/adults/ND clients? (Yes, with adaptations covered in the course.)
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Is this course suitable for students/new grads? (Yes, especially those wanting to build creative confidence.)
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Will this be held live or as a self paced course? (This course will be a self paced course. If you prefer to attend training live online, you can let us know via email).
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Will we need our own materials? (Yes, all materials needed for the course will be simple art materials and can be purchased for a small price at stores like OfficeWorks).
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What is the course cost? ($99)
Hi guys!
A little about me. I have facilitated online therapeutic workshops for eight years now, whilst practicing as a Mental Health OT. For years I've been able to experience both personally and professionally the impact that art can have on mental health and wellbeing.
The formal qualifications and experience that I bring to training are:
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Bachelor in Occupational Therapy and Post Graduate Diploma in Art Psychotherapy
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Eight years of experience as a Mental Health Occupational Therapist and therapeutic art workshop facilitator
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Five years as the founder and director of Our Mindful Youth
(Occupational Therapy, Art Therapy and Counselling practice) -
Three years of experience as a clinical OT supervisor
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Accreditation in the Better Access to Mental Health scheme and Mental Health First Aid
I created this course for the OTs who know that healing doesn’t always start with words. Expressive arts can be a bridge, and a breakthrough.
