Veritas: Latin for truth
Veritas Art Therapy was born in April 2023 when, after 20+ years of working for others, the time was right to begin my own Private Practice. In my 16 years in the field of Mental Health and Therapy I've been reminded time and again of how powerful and restorative Art Therapy is for both children, young people and adults.
I adjust my style and methods depending on the needs and age of the client. A range of creative processes are employed such as sensory-based work, movement, and narrative therapy using play therapy toys and sand-tray as well as the trauma-informed method of Sensorimotor Guided Drawing. I regularly ask clients "what do you need from this session?" to help focus our work together.
When clients are unsure of where to begin I provide more structure and direction whilst when some come with a clear theme or goal, I become a creative companion and 'thought-partner'.
I grew up in an intensely creative and neurodivergent family, highly attuned to the beauty of nature, music, art and words. I've always loved the opportunities these forms of expression provide to express myself, and to feel deeply—beyond words.
My working life began as a Secondary Art and English teacher. I saw many students struggling to focus on their classwork, due to trauma and emotional challenges. They were distracted and engaging in unhelpful behaviours. This is what first sparked my interest in therapy.
In 2005, I discovered Art Therapy, completing a Masters of Art Therapy at La Trobe University (2007). I felt I had finally found my perfect vocation—combining my love for and interest in humankind with my love for the arts.
I've worked extensively in Community Mental Health and have broad experience with a vast range of mental health issues as well as the ability to connect with people in a warm and approachable way, accepting everyone where they are.
While youth mental health is where I've spent many professional years, my true special interest is neurodiversity—ASD, AuDHD and ADHD. Other themes I regularly work with are relationships, complex trauma, chronic pain, grief, co-dependency and addiction. I can also offer Faith-Based Therapy.
Contact me today to find out how Art Therapy will support you on your journey towards greater freedom from struggles, positive insight and grounded strength.