CREATIVE FACILITATOR
PROJECT MANAGER
Collaborating to foster social change for people with/ out disability
Specialising in inclusive practices that inspire
community engagement and
collabartion
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ARTS BASED COMPASSION BASED THERAPY
Painting our way to self-care: The potential of arts-based compassion focused therapy for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander clients
In 2017-18, The University of Rural Health and Realartworks.Inc undertook a pilot study to determine the value of compassion focused therapy (CFT) for the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander clients. The study took them on an interesting journey from a more “western” group therapy approach to a novel and more culturally attuned approach - integrating the principles of CFT into visual arts, exploring how “arts based compassion focused therapy” (ABCFT) was experienced by Aboriginal clients and health workers. The success of this pilot study has initiated an exciting new 2.5 year project. In 2020, a collaboration with local Aboriginal services Rekindling the Spirit, Namatjira Haven, Bullinah, and Bunjum Corporation, will take place to evaluate ABCFT and train Aboriginal health professionals to take over delivery of ABCFT. The Creative Component of this project will be designed and delivered by Sunita Bala.