Introducing Stephanie on Student Placement!

Hi, I’m Stephanie and I am beginning my first student placement at Phoenix, for my Diploma of Counselling and Communications at Torrens Uni. So far, I have found it to be thoroughly enjoyable in an incredibly supportive environment.  Mel is warm and inclusive, as well as exceedingly knowledgeable, whilst taking on the added role and responsibility as my Supervisor. I am grateful.

Last week I was invited to participate in the Introduction of Creative Arts Therapy, Skills Workshop for Professionals, a three-day training course consisting of comprehensive written and experiential content. Engaging in Art as Therapy, self-reflection is an important tool; it is not about your artistic talent, and you are not judged on quality and nor does anyone try and interpret.

For me, it was a very gentle and nurturing space in which to express using different mediums, providing an opportunity to explore things about myself at my own pace and choosing. In doing the art, your mind also has a chance to switch off, and for you to just be in the flow allowing a sense of relaxation and to become aware of the value of my felt-sense for clarity, acknowledgment, and resolution. I found it very valuable personally, and am excited to have learnt these skills to add to my counselling toolbox.