A Lifelong Journey Through Creativity, Mental Health and Healing
My Professional Path
My professional journey began in mental health nursing, where I understood how much can remain unspoken when people are experiencing psychological distress or trauma.
In 1995 I created, developed and implemented an Art Therapy programme specifically for veterans experiencing combat-related PTSD. I worked with Vietnam veterans, and later expanded the programme to include veterans who had served in Iraq and Afghanistan.
I also created and developed Art Therapy programmes for non-combat related PTSD, eating disorders, mood disorders, substance use issues, and grief and loss.
I completed a Master of Arts in Arts Therapy at Edith Cowan University. I went on to develop and establish these Art Therapy programmes within mental health services, including at Hollywood Clinic in Perth.
Clinical Experience
Over three decades, I have created, developed and implemented Art Therapy programmes for:
Combat-related PTSD (Vietnam, Iraq, Afghanistan veterans) • Non-combat PTSD • Eating disorders • Mood disorders • Substance use issues • Grief and loss • Identity issues • A wide range of psychological challenges
Starting in 1995, I developed comprehensive Art Therapy frameworks, clinical protocols and group structures tailored to each population, ensuring trauma-informed care that addressed the specific needs of each group.
I also developed an Art Therapy group for wives of Vietnam veterans, funded by the Department of Veterans' Affairs.
I developed a day-patient women's Art Therapy group for patients experiencing PTSD and trauma, which was recognised with a Mental Health Good Outcomes Award in 2010.
I have lectured in Art Therapy at Edith Cowan University and regularly supervise Art Therapy students and professionals.
Beyond the Clinical
My interest extended beyond those receiving treatment to those providing it. A Quality Project I led at Hollywood Clinic explored the artwork of members of the trauma team. This research highlighted the impact of secondary and vicarious trauma on therapists themselves — work that directly informs what I offer health professionals today.
A Path with Art — Kashmir Project
In 2010 I established a community-based Art Therapy programme in Kashmir: A Path with Art — Expressing Untold Kashmir. What began as a self-funded initiative evolved into an International Rotary project in 2012, developing workshops and training for people and young people affected by trauma and the ongoing impact of conflict.
Churchill Fellowship
In 2012 I was awarded a Churchill Fellowship by the Winston Churchill Memorial Trust to research international approaches and best practice in creative therapies and trauma recovery in the United States and Israel.
What Remains Constant
After 32 years of hospital-based clinical work, I have entered a new chapter. I am bringing together what I have learned through mental health, trauma, creativity and Art Therapy into offerings and creative experiences beyond the hospital setting.
I have always been interested in what becomes possible when people are given a safe space to create.
Art can offer another language. An image can sometimes express something that words cannot yet reach. Music, colour, movement, symbolism, writing and the natural world can open different doors into experience.
I don't stand outside the creative process giving instructions. I create alongside you. I make art, experiment, take risks, get curious and allow myself not to know exactly where an image is going. Because that is part of the creative journey.
My Credentials
Master of Arts in Arts Therapy — Edith Cowan University
Mental Health Nursing background
Registered Mental Health Nurse (RMHN)
Professional member: Australian, New Zealand and Asian Creative Arts Therapies Association (ANZACATA)
Churchill Fellowship (2012)
After 32 years of clinical practice, I am bringing this work beyond the hospital setting. If you would like to create something together, I would love to hear from you.