It is important to me that you feel completely safe and comfortable in your environment and with the process when in a group session, and equally important if you are an art therapy client. In my group workshops participants are encouraged to share, but only what they feel safe in sharing, when and if they feel safe enough to do so within the group. This sharing can be part of the therapeutic process. We agree with each other that we will not share any of what is discussed during a workshop, or outside of that workshop. According to the privacy laws of Australia, I do not and will not share your personal information and all private (and group) sessions remain strictly confidential.
More on Group Communications for ‘Hearts Wisdom Art’
The differences in people are recognised in as much as some need to communicate to be able to understand what is coming up for them personally through the process. However, others may choose to just allow the process to reveal itself to them without disclosure, gaining understanding and able to assimilate their own experience. Whilst one participant will be quiet in their processing, some will ask for insight and others will want a more expanded view incorporating the other members of the group to give added viewpoints in relation to the images that have arisen.
In the groups I run, participants are informed that this is a non-judgemental process and therefore, they all need to look at their art work through fresh eyes. This workshop is not about art as beautification for our walls but art as a tool for therapeutic healing. There are pieces created though, that could very well be very pleasing to the eye and become pieces to adorn a wall! This form of art is about connecting on a deep level with our own hearts to find the wisdom that is waiting to be accessed.
Because of the nature of this art form, each piece of work is unique and different and therefore very special in the same way that each participant is unique and special, working from a multitude of different aspects of the self. Each individual has their own gifts, attitudes and ways of working. Like different kinds of flowers, each has chosen to grow in a way that is unique to them. Even if they may be the same variety, one may have more petals than another or be shorter or taller in stature, or paler or more colourful than another from the same family of origin. These differences are celebrated and honoured as the individuals who created them.
As a client, you will always be treated with respect and allowed to experience the process in whatever way is right for you. My goal is that when you are finished, you will leave feeling as though you have accomplished something meaningful for yourself. For some, this fulfilment may come from seeing the end result, through the actual process or it could be in the connections with others. Sometimes, it is all three.
Safety and a professional attitude is paramount and photos of participants artwork is only used with their permission via the feedback form they have completed.