Visual art can be a beneficial intervention form in supporting families and children experiencing mental health challenges. Case studies show how art can be a valuable tool for children and their families to gain a greater understanding of each others experience of living with mental health difficulties. How such understanding can have the potential to bring about a sense of increased wellbeing for the individual as well as the family as a group; and increased understanding of their inner self, relationships, emotions and thoughts which has the potential to improve the child and their family’s ability to engage with each other, extended family and the community. The presentation will briefly talk about art therapy as a concept before taking the audience through a series of case studies leading in to hands on experience and discussion.

Jannie Olsen Leach is an Art Psychotherapist and the Advanced Social Worker, Clinical Specialist, with the Child Development Program in Queensland Health. She has a Masters in Mental health – Art Psychotherapy. Her background is in social work, holistic therapy and art. Jannie will be presenting at the 14th International Mental Health Conference being held at Outrigger, Surfers Paradise on Monday the 5th and Tuesday the 6th of
August 2013