June Newsletter
Good Morning,
As winter begins with its cool and crisp air, I welcome you to the June edition of the ITT Newsletter. This season offers us a unique opportunity for introspection and transformation, mirroring our paths of healing and growth. In this edition, I'm excited to share a curated collection of insights and resources designed to support and inspire you in your professional journey. Grab a cup of tea and may this newsletter serve as a warm companion, encouraging new ways of thinking and connecting with our clients during these reflective months.
Warm regards,Tania
What's Happening at ITT
Bimonthly Peer Supervision Offering:
ITT has announced its 2024 schedule for peer supervision, available both online and in-person. This initiative aims to provide a platform for professionals to engage in mutual learning and support, enhancing their clinical skills and therapeutic understanding. More details on the structure, dates, and how to participate can be found on our clinical supervision page.
https://www.integratedtraumatherapy.com.au/clinical-supervision-and-program-design
Dates
June 14th online peer supervision
July 17th in person peer supervision
Participants of the peer supervision groups have been sharing the unique value they have gained by being part of this group.
The value of art making as a way of knowing and understanding continues to amaze practitioners. We can often forget it’s power and quality if we don’t engage in it ourselves which is easy enough when we are the ones offering to others in our work. Keep creative and making art for your wellbeing and nourishment.
Professional Development:
When I learnt about shame, I began to notice how often it turns up in my work with clients. It can be very subtle and present in so many different ways. I felt a need to share this by creating a PD for practitioners to help clients recovery from its damaging impacts on us and our bodies.
This workshop will delve into the manifestations of shame within the nervous system, distinguishing between toxic traumatic shame and healthy shame. Utilising frameworks like Somatic Experiencing and Polyvagal Theory, the session will explore the therapeutic power of art in understanding and facilitating the repair of shame-related issues. It's an essential opportunity for professionals working with complex trauma, addiction recovery, and more.
I look forward to seeing you at the PD
When: Friday June 21st 12- 4pm
Where: Online
Time: 12pm -4pm
Fee: $295 + GST
Book here
Art Therapy Offerings at the Creative C:
I invite you to discover the enriching art therapy offerings at the Creative C , some may suit you and your clients. Our diverse range of workshops span from art making and creative expression to focused skill development sessions. Our art therapy workshops provide deep insights and opportunities for self-reflection. Join us in June and July for experiences that nurture creativity and personal growth
Creative C Workshops
Personal Reflection: Therapy for Self-Care
For me to remain effective and compassionate in my service to clients, it is essential that I engage in my own therapy. This practice not only nurtures my well-being but also deepens my connection to the human condition and the universal challenges we all face in navigating life and relationships. By embracing compassion, I am able to stay present with my clients, focusing on being with them rather than feeling compelled to "fix" their issues. This mindful approach allows for genuine empathy and support in my therapeutic journey with my client.
I think ongoing engagement in personal therapy reinforces the importance of self-care and reminds me that as a therapist, I too, am continually learning and growing. In essence, my commitment to my own therapeutic journey ensures that I am grounded, present, and fully equipped to assist clients in exploring their own paths toward healing and self-discovery.
Image: Aleksandr Ledogorov
Polyvagal Theory and the Window of Tolerance
Understanding the nervous system's role in trauma and stress is crucial for effective therapy. One key concept is the Polyvagal Theory, which explains how our nervous system regulates stress and resilience. Before tackling challenging work, I find it essential to ensure my clients are in a regulated state. Here's how I feel art therapy can support this process:
Identify Position on the Polyvagal Map: Work with clients to understand their current state.
Offer Supportive Materials/Directives: Provide art therapy materials that help clients return to their window of tolerance.
Notice the Shift: Help clients recognise changes in their state and new capacities they gain.
Gain Insights: Encourage reflection on the insights gained through this process.
Mindfulness Corner
I always look forward to receiving the ‘Neurobiology of Connection’ newsletter in my inbox. It provides valuable insights that I can contemplate and seamlessly integrate into my art therapy practice, enhancing my directives when working with clients.
For more great content visit:
Image: Lina Trochez
Resources & Readings
Trauma-Informed Practice and Expressive Arts Therapy
If you are looking to deepen your understanding of trauma-informed practice, particularly through the lens of Polyvagal Theory, Expressive Arts Therapy offers a range of courses that might be of interest.
These courses provide valuable insights and practical tools that can be seamlessly integrated into your practice, enhancing your ability to support clients effectively. By engaging with these materials, you can expand your knowledge and refine your approach to trauma-informed care, ensuring you are well-equipped to address the complex needs of your clients.
For more details and to explore the full range of courses, visit their website: Expressive Arts Therapy Courses.
Check it out the ITT Resource Page
https://www.integratedtraumatherapy.com.au/resources
Have a look at the Creative C too:
https://www.creativec.com.au
The CC has studio hire for events on the weekends or evenings during the week.
Thank you for reading.
Take care,
Tania
