First registered art therapist

Blackwall resident Ms Annetta Luspinner has become the first registered art therapist to practice on the Central Coast after completing her qualifications late last year.

Ms Luspinner said she hoped to fill the gap and provide a unique service that had "long been neglected" in the region.

"Art therapy is a form of psychotherapy that relies on the creative process itself, rather than the creative outcome or words alone, to promote well-being, self-esteem, and self-awareness for the client," Ms Luspinner said.

"Drawing, painting, collage and sculpture are usually the more common art forms used.

"The art therapist and the client work together in a therapeutic relationship focusing on the client's needs and agreed goals."

Ms Luspinner said the client's artwork and details of each session remained confidential.

There are numerous applications and benefits of art therapy, according to Ms Luspinner.

"I specialise in trauma recovery, adult mental health, grief and loss counselling, and personal growth and development," Ms Luspinner said.

"For instance, people who are interested in personal growth and development or who find themselves contemplating radical life changes (such as new job or return to education), and people who feel that something is 'missing' in their life but don't exactly know what it is or how to pinpoint the issues may find art therapy is what they are looking for.

"This form of therapy can also be for people who have experienced life circumstances that they haven't planned for and who wish to find a proactive solution by developing a new self-perspective and fresh coping skills.

"People living with mental health challenges and those experiencing grief or loss (loved one passing, retirement or menopause) can also take advantage of art therapy."

Ms Luspinner first came across the unique field of art therapy while studying a fine art degree at the University of Newcastle.

"While studying for my Bachelor of Fine Art degree I took some electives in related fields, and I became so interested that I undertook a directed study into art therapy in my final year," Ms Luspinner said.

"It seemed to be the best fit with my counselling and arts background.

"I felt drawn to bring together my areas of expertise within an expanded and more deeply researched field of work.

Clare Graham, 21 Jan 2010 Interviewee: Annetta Luspinner, Blackwall