Dena Lawrence

I am an Art Psychotherapist and Artist, and a professional member of the Australia and New Zealand Art Therapy Association. I have worked in the Mental Health field for the past 25 years, initially as a Registered Mental Health Nurse and in the last 10 years as a Registered Art Psychotherapist

 Over the past years I have created, developed and implemented an Art Therapy Programme at "The Hollywood Clinic" a private psychiatric Unit in Perth.   I have lectured in Art Therapy and supervised Art Therapy students at "Edith Cowan University" in Perth.   I currently facilitate Art Therapy groups for those who suffer from Anxiety, Depression,  Eating Disorders, Addictions and Post Traumatic Stress Disorder. I have also developed workshops that focus on grief and loss, self-esteem and Mindfulness based Art Therapy.    I also work in private practice and work as a clinical supervisor.

 I am a client-centered therapist and I use techniques and theories that fit the client.  I draw on a wide variety of theories to create an integrative approach and in the sessions combine a varied range of modalities to assist the creative process. I am a practicing artist and combine theories creatively to facilitate the creative process and the process of change.   The theoretical frameworks that inform my approach apart from Art Therapy are Jungian psychotherapy and active imagination.    My approach is greatly influenced by meditation practices from eastern and western cultures and traditions – Buddhism, Hinduism, Christianity, Sufism and the North American Indian culture

 Within the sessions as well as drawing, painting and clay work etc, I include guided visualization, relaxation, Meditiation and mindfulness techniques, Guided Imagery, Journal and creative writing, music and movement.