New Youth Art Therapy Groups

Many of you will know that due to the generosity of many we were able to purchase the new home for Teen Challenge Tasmania at 90 St John St, Launceston. What some of you may not know is that the design of the building had an upstairs area that had been a Theatrette used as a cooking demonstration area for the Gas Company when originally built.

Over the years the space was used sparodically and then not at all leaving its condition to decline, decades of disuse and environmental impacts such as water ingress had resulted in quite a mess. However the first time Peter and I walked into that space I had visions of returning it to its former glory and opening it to use for our own youth projects and training needs but also to our community. Building a hub within our building for outreach to those in our city.

The majority of the restoration is nearly completed and we are now just being able to commence using the space for our desired purposes. At Christmas time we were able to hold a Nativity play which you can view in another article which was just delightful. This month on the 3rd of March we commenced Meaningful Art - Youth Art Therapy groups for 13-19yo.

Anna Cameron, is the program coordinator. a seasoned professional family therapist of the last 30 years. Anna and I dreamed together of starting groups with young people quite a while ago. She and a team of wonderful people commenced youth art & craft programs during school holidays and it really cemented the desire to continue.

We circulated to High Schools and local service providers about the Meaningful Art Program and began the sessions recently. We have two sessions each Thursday 1.30pm - 3.00pm & 3.45-5.15pm during school term with up to 10 participants in each session. Due to the generosity of Anna and co-facilitator Lisa volunteering their time and St Andrews Presbyterian Church & Prescare providing funds to purchase equipment and materials there is NO CHARGE to participants.

The space is beautiful and the young people that attend are all struggling with some aspect of their life. Art is such a beautiful medium that allows self-sxpression and together with Anna & Lisa’s guidance helps the young people connect with their emotions through their art and progress toward new directions.

Just this week I witnessed a couple of the participants that are really facing some very challenging situations grinning from ear to ear after a session and to hear their laughter was heart moving.

If you would like more information or know someone that may benefit from this program please view our website and complete the enquiry form.