Arts therapy is an allied health profession. It is delivered by professionally trained arts therapists who work with clients using art, dance or drama within their therapy sessions. The therapist supports participants to work toward their individual goals in creative ways to enhance physical and emotional well-being.
The participant and the therapist work together within clearly defined boundaries and goals in a safe, confidential and nurturing environment. Participants do not need to have any prior experience making art as the emphasis is generally on the creative process rather than the outcome.
Arts therapy is client-centred, inclusive and outcome oriented. It can be useful for individuals, groups, and communities. It is suitable for people of all ages and backgrounds.
The NDIS (National Disability Insurance Scheme) is an Australia-wide initiative that provides funding for people with physical and psychosocial disabilities to access supports to maintain and improve their quality of life. It is underpinned by the concept of choice and control for participants and their families.
NDIS participants may access arts therapy to support them to achieve their goals. Participants whose funds are managed by the NDIA may only use NDIS-registered arts therapists. Those members who are registered can be found in the 'Find a Therapist' directory –Click here.
Professional arts therapists are registered with the Australian, New Zealand and Asian Creative Arts Therapies Association (ANZACATA). To find an ANZACATA member who is a NDIS registered Provider in your local area, visit the 'Find a Therapist' directory –Click here.
Search by ‘region’ and ‘NDIS registered’.
It is important that your arts therapist understands your goals and the outcomes you would like to achieve. For this reason, when you contact an arts therapist they may ask you the following questions:
1. What are your goals?
2. How is your NDIS plan managed?
The arts therapist you choose will make a Service Agreement with you to plan how you will achieve your goals. This may include:
In order to practise and use the recognised title AThR (ANZACATA-approved arts therapists), the following requirements must be met:
Please note: We recognise that the NDIS is a dynamic system and that changes happen regularly. If you are aware of updated information or if you would like to suggest improvements to this content please use this form to notify us so that we can update our website.
Email the ANZACATA Executive Officer.