Frequently Asked Questions

Somatic Arts therapy Program @ BlendEd

Do I have to be good at the arts?

No, it’s not about how good you are at art, it’s about your curiosity and willingness to use other ways of having a conversation. The materials becomes your words.

How many students are in a group session?

6-15 people from your BlendEd region.

What is the structure of a group session?

The structure will develop over the course of the program in response to how you and other students engage and feedback. At the beginning we will work on creating group agreements, and getting to know each other and the space we’re in. Each session is themed around useful skills for young people - these will be explored in whole group, small group and individual activities. I will move around the group/s to support people as needed.

What if I don’t want to make anything?

Take your time, when you’re ready, have a go. If you don’t want to ‘make’ you can use the fidget objects, observe and contribute when you feel comfortable.

Can I do the sessions with my friends?

If there is someone you’d really like to do the sessions with and that would make it easier for you to attend, then have a chat with your Youth Worker about this.

What’s the venue?

Venue information will be shared with you when the space is booked prior to you attending, there will be images available. The venue will be the same for all 4 sessions and have access to outdoors.

Do we get food?

Yes lunch will be supplied.

How often do I have to attend sessions?

Sessions are optional - you can come to as many as you like. You do not have to attend all four sessions in Term 4. Come along, check it out and see what you think.

What if I feel like I can’t manage the whole session?

There will be a quiet area for you to have some down time if you need it during a session. All activities are optional. Myself and other BlendEd staff will be available to support you. If you want to leave you can talk to your Youth Worker .

Will it help?

In the words of a student I have worked with, “I know it helps because every single time I leave I feel much better than when I joined. The strategies calm me down, help to get me back to a place [where] I feel comfortable.”
Creative Arts Therapists are mental health professionals who have positively impacted generations of people around the world. Art Therapy has been a formal field of practice since the 1930s and 40s, though crafting, dance, music making and song have always been integral therapeutic practices of ancient cultures. Somatic Arts Therapy is an allied health professional service with proven benefits supported by peak professional bodies like ANZACATA with over 1200 registered Creative Arts Therapists in Australia, New Zealand and Asia.

Is it embarrassing?

It might feel a bit weird at first but over time you will find your way with it. You choose what to participate in. I will offer ways to approach things that feel accessible and un-intimidating. I am open to your suggestions.

Will I feel safe?

Myself and the BlendEd team will work to create a safe space for you - where you have agency and support.

Will I have to share what’s going on for me with others?

Sharing is optional. If you do choose to share, it can be with a chosen person, myself, or the group depending on how you are feeling.

Will what I share be spoken about outside of the session (confidentiality)?

I will be case noting what happens in sessions and only share this with the Wellbeing Leads at BlendEd. All content arising from the Somatic Art Therapy program is held confidentially with myself and the Wellbeing Leads. There is a legal obligation to report threats to safety for someone below the age of 18yrs. If there is a risk to your safety or that of someone else, the necessary information will be shared with the legally required poeple.

Can I take what I make home?

You can photograph whatever you make. Depending on the materials, you can choose to leave, throw out or take home whatever you make.

What if I want a 1-1 session with Camilla?

If you’d like to work privately with me, please speak directly to me, your Youth Worker or your Teacher. This is certainly an option during term time in 2026, but if there is the demand then we may make it an option in Term 4, 2025.

If you have any other questions, please reach out to your Youth Worker to arrange a meet & greet with me.