We have funded a range of expressive therapy programs to support people living in the region with low-intensity mental health issues.
Expressive therapies use creative processes such as art, drama, dance and movement as a therapeutic way to improve a patient's overall wellbeing including their mental health. These types of therapy focus on the creative process, utilising a wide range of materials and exploring several different techniques as part of the therapeutic intervention.
Expressive therapies not only enhance the emotional and physical wellbeing of patients and improve self-esteem but have been shown to have a range of other benefits including:
- helping people manage difficult behaviours and feelings
- reducing stress
- expressing feelings that may be difficult to verbalise.
Expressive Therapy Programs
Noro Music Therapy
Noro Music Therapy is a 13-week music program that uses music eg. singing, playing instruments, dance, songwriting, recording and performing to actively support people to help improve their health, confidence and wellbeing. GPs can refer patients directly to this program or patients who are enrolled in an existing Wentworth Healthcare commissioned mental health service can be referred. The program is delivered in the Blue Mountains and Penrith.
Resourced Music Therapy
Resourced Music Therapy is an Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander program for people aged 12 and over. It combines music and visual arts processes to facilitate expression and exploration of difficult emotions and experiences to support emotional healing. This program is delivered in three groups with one group in each Penrith, Blue Mountains and Hawkesbury LGA. Penrith is now closed, with spots remaining in Hawkesbury (delivered from Merana) and Blue Mountains.
KidsXpress
KidsExpress are running a comprehensive program for 18 children at Kingswood Park Public School. This closed referral program includes elements of individual therapy, group art and music therapy, and playground connection activities tailored to the unique needs of each child. Please note that referrals have now closed for this program.
Referral details
No formal referral required, patients can self-refer to all programs.
