introduction workbook:
arts based occupational
therapy
Becoming an expressive Occupational Therapist; the introduction to using creative arts therapy approaches within psychosocial Occupational Therapy Practice
$39
This is an introductory training workbook designed for Occupational Therapists who want to explore how creative and expressive arts approaches can enrich psychosocial Occupational Therapy practice.
Drawing on Occupational Therapy's historical roots in creativity and meaningful occupation, this training introduces therapists to the therapeutic use of expressive arts as tools for emotional expression, self-discovery, regulation, communication, reflection, and occupational engagement.
Throughout the workbook, participants will:
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Explore the role of creativity in health, wellbeing, and occupational participation
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Understand the historical relationship between creativity and Occupational Therapy
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Learn the distinction between expressive arts approaches and fine arts activities
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Develop an understanding of the differences between Occupational Therapy and Art Therapy scope of practice
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Explore ethical considerations and referral pathways
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Learn how expressive arts can support emotional regulation, communication, self-awareness, and occupational performance
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Gain an introduction to a range of expressive modalities including visual arts, writing, storytelling, movement, music, and creative reflection
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Participate in experiential activities designed to increase self-awareness and confidence in using creative approaches with clients
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Explore how arts-based approaches align with the Model of Human Occupation (MOHO)
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 these trainings are:
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Bachelor in Occupational Therapy
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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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Eight years as the founder and director of Our Mindful Youth
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Five 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
Do I need to be artistic or creative to complete this course?
Not at all. One of the biggest myths about arts-based approaches is that you need to be "good at art" to use them effectively. This course focuses on creativity as a therapeutic process rather than artistic skill.
Many therapists who initially describe themselves as "not creative" find this course helps them reconnect with their own creativity and confidence.
Is this an Art Therapy course?
No. This course is not Art Therapy training and does not qualify participants to practise as Art Therapists.
Instead, it explores how Occupational Therapists can ethically and appropriately incorporate creative and expressive activities within Occupational Therapy practice. The content remains grounded in Occupational Therapy theory, clinical reasoning, occupational participation, and scope of practice.
What is the difference between the introductory course and the comprehensive course?
The introductory course provides the foundational knowledge, theory, and reflective learning needed to begin understanding arts-based approaches in Occupational Therapy. The comprehensive course takes this learning much further by providing practical implementation tools, intervention resources, planning templates, experiential learning opportunities, and advanced clinical applications. If you are looking for a brief introduction and overview, this course is a great starting point. If you want to confidently integrate arts-based approaches into your everyday Occupational Therapy practice, the comprehensive course is recommended.
Will I receive printable activities?
The introductory course includes a selection of printable activities and experiential exercises.
The comprehensive course contains a much larger library of downloadable activities, intervention resources, session guides, and implementation tools.
Can I use these activities with clients immediately?
Many activities may be adapted for use within Occupational Therapy practice. However, participants are encouraged to first experience activities themselves, consider their clinical reasoning, and ensure activities are implemented appropriately within their professional scope of practice and the individual needs of each client.
Is this course evidence-informed?
Yes. The course draws upon Occupational Therapy theory, psychosocial Occupational Therapy practice, creative and expressive approaches, mental health frameworks, and contemporary understandings of occupational participation, identity, wellbeing, and engagement. The content has also been informed by my own postgraduate training in Art Psychotherapy and years of Occupational Therapy experience supporting mental health and psychosocial outcomes.
Is this course suitable for students or new graduate Occupational Therapists?
Absolutely. The introductory course is suitable for:
• Occupational Therapy students
• New graduate Occupational Therapists
• Experienced Occupational Therapists
• Mental health Occupational Therapists
• Community and disability Occupational Therapists
• Therapists wanting to expand their intervention toolkit
How long will I have access to the course?
The course is downloadable as a workbook so you will always have access to it.
Do I receive a certificate?
This course covers 3 x hours of CPD. If you would like to receive a certificate of completion you can email us on admin@ourmindfulyouth.com.au
What is not included?
This introductory workbook is designed as a starting point rather than comprehensive professional training. While it provides valuable foundational knowledge, it does not include the depth of implementation support, experiential learning, or practical resources provided in the full Arts-Based Approaches for Occupational Therapists program.
The comprehensive course includes:
• In-depth training webinars
• Downloadable intervention resources and activities
• Session planning and intervention planning templates
• Occupational Therapy-specific implementation frameworks
• Detailed clinical examples and case applications
• Experiential learning modules where therapists personally engage in expressive arts processes
• Guidance on adapting activities across different client presentations and age groups
• Ongoing practical tools that can be immediately used in clinical practice
What if I want to learn more?
This introductory course is designed to provide a strong foundation and inspire new ways of thinking about creativity within Occupational Therapy practice. If you find yourself wanting more practical tools, intervention ideas, implementation support, and experiential learning opportunities, the comprehensive Arts-Based Approaches for Occupational Therapists course is the natural next step. Many therapists begin with the introductory course and then progress to the comprehensive training once they feel ready to deepen their skills and confidence.
