Expressive Arts for Mental Health: Theory and Practice

Expressive Arts Therapy (EXAT) is the use of various arts such as drawing, painting, writing, sculpture, dance, music, drumming, drama, etc. for personal and collective insight, change, and healing. EXAT can reduce symptoms of anxiety and depression and is an effective intervention for grief and trauma. EXAT is person-centred and accessible to most everyone.

In this interactive workshop. we will discuss the relationship between Arts and Health from an EXAT perspective. Specifically, we will look at the therapeutic arts continuum; the difference between Art Therapy and Expressive Art Therapy; the central principles and theoretical orientation of EXAT; case study examples; and suggestions for ways to integrate EXAT safely and effectively into your work with clients.

Participants are encouraged to have a drawing pencil (or pen) and several sheets of paper for sample exercises.

Learning Objectives

• Understand the differences between Art Therapy (AT), Expressive Art Therapy (EXAT), and other creative therapies;
• Awareness of the mechanisms through which EXAT promotes mental health and wellbeing;
• Knowledge of the central principles of EXAT and how to apply them when offering Expressive Arts experiences to clients;
• Practical and specific Expressive Arts activity ideas for various client populations.

Pricing

• Early Bird Ticket for Peterborough-Based Participants: $39.00*
• Regular Ticket for Peterborough-Based Participants: $49.00*
• Regular Ticket for Participants Outside of Peterborough: $59.00*

*Plus Eventbrite’s fee.

FAQs

Who should attend this workshop?
This workshop is designed specifically for helping professionals. We define “helping professional” as anyone in a position of interacting with people in providing a service.

How many people can attend?
Registration for this workshop has been capped at 35 participants.

What is a level one partner workshop?
This refers to a workshop that is being put on by another organization or individual with the support of A Question of Care. It is also being offered at a more basic, 101 level, though it can be beneficial to anyone regardless of their experience.

Will I receive a certificate for attending?
Yes, you will receive a certificate of attendance after participating in the workshop and filling out a post-course evaluation.

Will the workshop be recorded?
No, the workshop will not be recorded in order to maintain the privacy of participants, but any relevant slides and handouts will be sent to attendees.

What is your refund policy?
We can offer refunds up to seven days before the first session. Eventbrite’s fee is nonrefundable. After this period, we can accept substitutions. If we must cancel the workshop, you will receive a full refund. Your satisfaction is guaranteed.

Who can I contact with further questions?
If you have an accessibility request or any other questions, please contact the QoC Project Lead at or 705-927-3448.

The cost of this workshop has been subsidized through a partnership with the Peterborough Drug Strategy and its members. Additionally, local participants can contact us to apply for a bursary.