WELCOME TO
…Nourish the Soul…
ECO & ART THERAPIES
The integration of Eco & Art Therapies has been specifically designed by Deidrie as a technique to draw on the beautiful healing power of nature through artistic creative processes to nourish the soul.
Eco & Art Therapies = E.A.T… Nourish the Soul…
WHAT IS ART THERAPY
Art Therapy is an art making process where the client explores their inner worlds, express their thoughts and feelings to develop greater self-awareness, self-esteem and cope better with their everyday stressors.
Art is a creative process that accesses the part of the brain that is free to express our inner selves without words. As a type of psychotherapy, Art Therapy improves emotional, physical, mental and spiritual wellbeing, facilitated by a qualified allied health professional. Art is a form of communication used for personal expression, externalising thoughts and feelings. When done in a safe environment with an art therapist, it can bring self-awareness with positive changes, transformation and healing. It is an experiential and creative process.
Art therapy is different to an art class. By accessing our creative and imaginative side, which is within all of us, therefore no previous experience or skills are required. Art is used to express and heal, therefore it is in the process of making art and use of expressive therapies to explore and understand aspects of oneself and our experiences.
The aim is to manage behaviours, process feelings, reduce stress and anxiety, and increase self-esteem. Studies also show that creating art stimulates the release of dopamine. This chemical is released when we do something pleasurable, and it basically makes us feel happier.
Everyone can benefit from Art Therapy, both children and adults from any culture and demographic or cultural background. It is a form of expression for our thoughts and feelings, to explore, communicate and heal.
The interpersonal relationship between the client and therapist is the cornerstone of the therapeutic alliance within Art Therapy.
WHAT IS ECO THERAPY
Eco Therapy is a type of therapy that combines the healing power of nature and art into a joint therapeutic session. Objects found within nature such as dry leaves, pinecones, seashells, seed pods, weeds, flower petals, stones and grass can be used to make an ephemeral natural art creation that is temporary and changes as does nature.
Eco Therapy gives one a chance to slow down and explore issues in a safe and caring environment. This then in turn gives the individual a sense of control over their lives so they can understand and know themselves better, seeing themselves as part of the whole dynamic ecology of the world.
It can be as simple as going for a walk along the beach or in the bush, where we just walk, talk, sit and use mindfulness techniques.
BENEFITS OF ECO & ART THERAPY
- Build positive connections and a sense of belonging
- Realise that you are not alone with your issues
- Improve social skills and learn ways to deal with big emotions
- Build resilience and confidence
- Learn new coping strategies and problem solving skills
- Deepen self-awareness and self-expression through art
- Be more aware of own strengths
- Bring Mindfulness into your everyday
- Improve your mental health and wellbeing
MEET DEIDRIE TEHAN CULLEN
Eco and Art Therapies was established by Deidrie Tehan Cullen to assist in people’s wellbeing, improve mental health and access their inner creativity.
Deidrie holds a Bachelor of Art in Psychotherapy and a Diploma in Counselling and is also a professional photographer.
Deidrie brings to her work not only professional training but also the lived experience of thriving with stage IV breast cancer. Rather than defining her, this journey deepens her compassion, resilience, and sense of purpose. It is a powerful reminder that even in the face of a life-limiting diagnosis, it is possible to live fully, creatively, and with joy.
