I’m Sharon Vaness, an art therapist based in Narellan Vale. Every day, I work with children, particularly those with disabilities and autism, as well as adults. I want to take you on a journey through the world of art therapy—what it really is, how it works, and how it can change your life.

Art therapy is often misunderstood as just another form of creative expression. But it’s so much more than that. It’s not about producing beautiful artwork or mastering a skill; it’s about using creativity as a means of healing and self-discovery.

More Than Paint and Brushes

When people think of art, they usually imagine paint, brushes, and a canvas. But art therapy goes beyond these tools—it engages all of your senses. We use movement, sound, smell, and texture to awaken your mind and body, guiding you into a space where thinking and doing blend together seamlessly. So, if you’re feeling a little sluggish, why not stand up and move a bit? Wiggle your arms, dance, shake off the tiredness—it’s all about waking up that creative energy within you.

The Many Faces of Art

Art can take many forms, but not all art is therapy. In an art class, for example, you learn techniques, explore artistic approaches, and work toward a tangible goal—often guided by a teacher. In social art settings, you connect with others, share knowledge, and build a sense of community. While these are valuable experiences, they differ from art therapy, which is deeply personal and therapeutic.

In art therapy, the focus isn’t on the final product; it’s on the process itself. It’s about creating a safe, non-judgmental space where you can explore your emotions, guided by a qualified art therapist like myself. We dive deep into the unconscious, uncovering feelings and thoughts that may have been hidden for years.

Healing Through Creativity

One of the most powerful tools we use in art therapy is color. Colors speak to us in ways that words cannot. We might choose a color that resonates with how we feel at the moment or one that reflects a deeper emotion. Have you ever wondered why you’re drawn to certain colors? Through guided exercises, you’ll begin to understand the emotional meaning behind your color choices.

Freestyle doodling is another powerful technique. It’s not about creating a masterpiece—it’s about letting your emotions flow onto the page. When you use your non-dominant hand to scribble, it challenges your brain to think in new ways, allowing you to tap into feelings that are often out of reach.

Collaging Your Inner World

If drawing or painting seems intimidating, don’t worry. Collaging is an excellent way to express yourself without needing any artistic skills. We use magazines, stickers, and other materials to create images that represent our thoughts and feelings. Each image tells a story—a story that only you know.

I remember one collage I made while walking in nature. I found a leaf and a few bird feathers, which I incorporated into the artwork. For me, this represented my deep connection to nature and the healing power it brings. Collaging allows us to amplify the emotions and themes we need to explore, creating a therapeutic path toward healing.

Expressive Painting: A Journey of Release

Let me share a powerful story of a client I worked with—someone who couldn’t hear, speak, or easily express her emotions. She had been holding onto anger for decades. We went to a park, armed with canvases and water balloons filled with paint. As she hurled the balloons at the canvas, I encouraged her to scream. At first, it was a soft yell. But as she threw the third balloon, something extraordinary happened. She let out a full, gut-wrenching scream—the first time she had ever heard herself.

This wasn’t just an act of throwing paint; it was a release, a moment of deep healing. By the end of that session, she was in tears—not out of sadness, but because she had finally let go of years of pent-up emotion. It was an emotional, beautiful experience, showing the immense power of expressive painting.

Art Journaling: Telling Your Story

Art journaling combines visual expression with the written word. After creating artwork, we often ask, “What does this say to you?” Writing down your thoughts, feelings, and stories is a profound way to understand your inner world. It’s about recognizing patterns in your life and using them as a guide for healing.

We all have a story to tell—whether it's positive or challenging. Art journaling helps us explore those stories, enabling us to work through past traumas, find peace, and ultimately heal. With the guidance of an art therapist, these stories take on new meaning, offering insights into who we are and what we need to move forward.

The Power of Art Therapy

Art therapy is not about making art—it’s about making meaning. Whether through painting, drawing, collaging, or journaling, each session brings you closer to understanding yourself. It provides a space where you can explore, express, and heal, no matter your artistic ability.

So, if you’ve ever felt that traditional therapy doesn’t speak to you, or if you’re looking for a new way to connect with your emotions, give art therapy a try. You don’t need to be an artist—you just need to be open to the process.

Healing begins when we allow ourselves to express what words can’t fully capture.