No, the process is distinct from art therapy. Broadly, sometimes people mistake coaching for therapy/counselling, mentoring, consulting/advising or training. It follows that arts-based coaching (such as this collage coaching process) is not art therapy. Although arts-based coaching draws upon art therapy techniques, it uses those techniques for coaching purposes, not therapeutic.

Yes, you can… creativity is for all of us! Creativity is not confined to the arts industries or to artists - it is part of what makes us human. Not only is creativity essential in professional settings and our everyday leadership, it plays a part in our everyday lives. Creativity is a beautiful gift and resource available to all of us - and it is up to us to cultivate and develop it.

Perhaps you’re asking this question because you’re wondering whether you have the skills needed to create your collage. Please rest assured that the design of this coaching process means that no collage or artistic skill are needed. In fact, the aesthetics of what you create is not the focus at all. Rather, the focus will be upon the coaching process and conversations, informed by your creative play through collage. I’ll guide you each step of the way - you won’t need to think ahead, you can relax into the moment.

There are a few unique aspects to this creative coaching workshop that you’ll find difficult to replicate alone. Firstly, you’ll have me, a creative leadership coach, facilitating the process so that you can enjoy spending time consciously in play, while uncovering a new vision and path for a new turn in life - without needing to be self-driven. And with my background as a public health researcher, you can rest assured that I take the evidence-base and rigor of the process seriously, which I bring together for you in an ethical, seamless way.

Secondly, you’ll have the time, space and materials taken care of for you. This time will be just for you, without the concerns of others or needing to problem solve how to make space and gather the right materials. The workshop provides the conditions that stimulate relaxation, flow and inspiration.

Thirdly, you’ll have the benefit of the group where you’ll be able to interact in an informal and creative way together (always to the degree you’re comfortable with) and combine your collective knowledge. As a group, we’ll establish a shared agreement at the outset, to uphold how we will safeguard the space together.

I continue to explore ways that I can push back on the shame and inequity inflicted by colonial capitalism, while sustaining my new business as it grows roots. To this end, I provide the option to pay in installments, and a limited number of 50% workshop scholarships.

Payment plan 

I offer no-interest payment plans. Typically these involve 2-3 payments, with all payments no later than 1 business day before the workshop. If you want to access a payment plan, please reach out and we can set it up. 

Scholarship

Is a scholarship rate for you? Consider the following statements: 

• I frequently stress about meeting basic needs and don’t always achieve them

• I have debt and it sometimes prohibits me from meeting my basic needs

• I rent lower-end properties or have unstable housing

• I do not have a car and/or have limited access to a car but I am not always able to afford gas

• I am unemployed or underemployed

• I qualify for government aid including food stamps and healthcare

• I have no access to savings

• I have no or very limited expendable income

• I rarely buy new items because I am unable to afford them

• I cannot afford a vacation or have the ability to take time off without financial burden

With thanks to the Radical History Club for their framework around this assessment.

Did you answer yes to the majority of all these statements? If yes, then you can access a 50% scholarship rate. No questions asked, as I trust your honesty in your assessment of your economic reality. 

Because this workshop is capped at a small number, places at the 50% rate are also capped. No application is required; if the spot is available for purchase then you can access it. Connect with me to access.

If there are no scholarship places available, I invite you to join my mailing list to be the first to know when I am offering public workshops again.  

Given the nature of working with the unconscious mind, this group workshop is not suitable for people who are living with severe mental health issues, unresolved trauma or a recent bereavement (within the past 8 months). This requirement is to protect the emotional safety of all participants.

If you’re unsure, you’re welcome to reach out and we can discuss.

The Broadbeach Community Space is located within the Broadbeach Cultural Precinct on the the corner of Hooker and Sunshine Boulevards, Broadbeach Waters. When you face the Cultural Centre, the community space is on your left - a lowset, smaller building. Free parking is limited to 2 hours but the City of Gold Coast will provide a parking permit which you can collect from Karen upon arrival, to place on your car dashboard. Time parking is also available nearby the venue.

Studio 1 is the glass-doored room that is visible from the lawn side of the Community Space. You can access it directly from the outside, or go through the lobby entry and turn right, and you’ll see the entry on your right.

You don’t need to worry about these details for now though. Karen will provide registered participants with all the information needed in advance, so that you can arrive feeling calm, prepared and ready.