Kirsten Winthers | Empowering Minds Through Art Therapy
Hello & Welcome
I’m Kirsten, an Art Therapist, Family & Child Therapist and Mental Health Clinician dedicated to helping individuals express, heal, and grow through the power of creative expression. With a Master’s in Art Therapy and over ten years of experience, I offer a compassionate, evidence-based approach rooted in trauma-informed, CBT-focused, and client-centred methodologies. Whether you're navigating life’s challenges or seeking new ways to connect with yourself, my practice offers a safe space to explore, heal, and transform.
What is art therapy?
Art therapy is a form of psychotherapy that uses creative expression as its primary tool for exploration and healing. This evidence-based approach integrates non-verbal, action-oriented, and multidisciplinary methods to help individuals process feelings and experiences. Often combined with traditional talk therapy, art therapy addresses thoughts, emotions, and experiences in a holistic way. It has become a powerful and effective tool in supporting trauma recovery and promoting mental health well-being, providing a unique pathway for self-expression and healing.
What are the benefits of Art Therapy?
Engaging in art therapy can provide a range of benefits, including:
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Allowing free self-expression through creative outlets, especially for emotions or experiences that are hard to verbalise.
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Supporting emotional regulation and stress management.
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Feeling supported, empowered, and safe within a confidential and protected space.
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Reducing levels of distress and anxiety.
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Improving social skills and strengthening interpersonal relationships.
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Developing sensory awareness and fine-motor skills.
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Building and reinforcing healthy coping strategies.
Services
For clients requiring a more structured approach, I integrate CBT-focused techniques into our art therapy sessions, grounded in trauma-informed practices. This approach is particularly beneficial for individuals managing anxiety, stress, and trauma-related symptoms.
"Kirsten's specialised art therapy program had a profound impact on the children at our school. Two students from my class participated, and I noticed remarkable changes in their ability to self-regulate. Their overall well-being and happiness improved significantly—they truly had a spring in their step again. It was incredible to see the positive transformation." - Teacher
"Thank you so much. My child has been greatly benefiting from their time with Kirsten and having a safe outlet to process everything going on. I’ve noticed ongoing improvements in their ability to regulate their emotions, and they’ve shared that they don’t cry as much anymore. It’s been such a positive and supportive experience for them." - Parent
Kirsten Winthers Art Therapy proudly serves clients in Melbourne's Western and Northern suburbs and inner-city areas.
Kirsten Winthers Art Therapy acknowledges the Traditional Owners of this land, the Wurrundjeri People of the Kulin Nation. I acknowledge the stories, art, traditions, and living culture and pay my respects to Elders past, present and emerging.