THERAPEUTIC SERVICES
Retreat of Life offers a range of therapeutic services Monday to Friday. Call 0477405645 for more details and bookings.
ART PSYCHOTHERAPY
60 min - $150
Shylie Smith is a Masters-qualified Clinical Art Psychotherapist who supports clients in using creative expression to explore and process memories, emotions and experiences in a positive and constructive way. Her approach recognises art making as a gentle, yet powerful therapeutic medium that can reveal insights, strengthen emotional regulation, and support healing when words alone may feel difficult or insufficient. Art Psychotherapy enhances your relationship with yourself, others and the world around you, helping you reconnect with your sense of identity and personal agency. No prior artistic ability or experience is required. A wide range of art materials is available to support whatever creative approach feels right for you, allowing you to explore at your own pace in a safe and supported environment.
For more information or appointments visit: www.experiencingcolour.com or call Shylie on 0477405645
PSYCHOTHERAPY
60 min - $150
Shylie Smith is a registered Psychotherapist who integrates a range of evidence-based modalities, including Somatic Attachment Therapy, Internal Family Systems (IFS), Dialectical Behaviour Therapy (DBT), Cognitive Behaviour Therapy (CBT), and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT). She tailors her therapeutic approach to each client's unique circumstances, challenges and goals, supporting meaningful and sustainable personal growth. Shylie works with children, adolescents, adults and families and brings experience from both hospitals and community settings. She specialises in trauma-informed therapeutic practice, providing a safe, nurturing environment where clients can explore their experiences and build resilience.
For more information or appointments visit: www.experiencingcolour.com or call Shylie on 0477405645
Experiencing Colour providing Art Therapy in the Creative therapies pilot supporting mental health on the North Coast
People across the North Coast experiencing moderate to severe mental health challenges now have access to new free creative therapy services, thanks to the launch of the North Coast Creative Therapies Pilot.
Launched by Healthy North Coast and funded by the Australian Government through the Primary Health Network program at a value of $1.03 million, the pilot will run until 30 June 2027, providing evidence-based creative arts therapy and music therapy to support mental health and wellbeing across the region.
Healthy North Coast is one of three Primary Health Networks (PHNs) nationally selected to deliver the initiative, which aims to expand access to innovative, person-centred mental health supports.
Creative therapies offered through the program are delivered by qualified practitioners accredited through the Australian, New Zealand and Asian Creative Arts Therapies Association (ANZACATA) or the Australian Music Therapy Association (AMTA).
SHYLIE SMITH FROM EXPERIENCING COLOUR IS ONE OF THESE ACCREDITED PRACTITIONERS.
These therapies support people to express themselves and process experiences in ways that do not rely solely on words. Delivered alongside other mental health supports, creative therapies can help individuals explore emotions, reduce anxiety, improve communication and strengthen overall wellbeing.
Healthy North Coast CEO, Monika Wheeler, said the pilot would provide new pathways to care for people who might benefit from innovative approaches to mental health treatment:
“Creative therapies offer powerful ways for people to explore their thoughts and emotions, particularly when talk-based therapies may not feel accessible or sufficient. Through this pilot, we’re expanding the range of mental health supports available on the North Coast and ensuring people can access approaches that work best for them.
“By working with skilled and accredited local providers, we’re helping people connect with therapies that can improve wellbeing, strengthen resilience and support recovery.”
Under the pilot, eligible participants can access up to 10 sessions, delivered in individual or group formats. Referrals are managed through the Medicare Mental Health Phone Service, ensuring people receive the most appropriate care program based on their needs. Participants assessed at Level of Care 3 or 4 may be eligible for the program. The pilot is open to people of all ages.
MEDICARE MENTAL HEALTH LINE: 1800 595 212
Contact Shylie now for more information