About Frank Art Therapy
Welcome to Frank Art Therapy (F.A.T!)
I am Helen Frank, a Masters-qualified art therapist, registered with the national professional body, ANZACATA, and the Australian Counselling Association (ACA).
F.A.T. is dedicated to all members of the community, from young children through to older adults addressing various mental health concerns such as anxiety, school refusal, stress, emotional regulation, and trauma.
ABOUT ME
I hold tertiary qualifications in Fine Art (Honours), Architecture, Allied Health, and a Master of Art Therapy (Dip. Counselling).
My professional journey has taken me through many creative and caring fields, including film and television, speech therapy, creative education, and art therapy and counselling across both schools and clinics. These varied experiences have shaped the way I connect with and support people, allowing me to bring a flexible, lateral, and compassionate approach to my work. I’m passionate about helping people prioritise their mental health, recognise their strengths, and develop meaningful strategies to support their wellbeing.
I believe that creativity is inherent to the human experience. It is a privilege to share that experience with others.
SIDE HUSTLE
Alphapop is a passion project, and one that aligns with my values of innovation and education, producing graphically playful alphabet and number prints that promote a love of learning. I have long maintained that the joy of education - in all its forms - is tethered to creativity, confidence and wellbeing. Link here.
Art therapy is an evidence-based form of psychotherapy that uses creative expression to help individuals explore emotions, process experiences, and enhance wellbeing. Through a client-centred approach that moves at your pace,, it fosters self-awareness, resilience, and healing in a supportive and inclusive environment.
Art therapy may support individuals of all ages experiencing:
School refusal
Trauma, including PTSD and complex trauma
Eating disorders
Grief and loss
Life transitions and adjustment to change
Identity, gender, and sexuality exploration
Neurodivergence
Disability or chronic illness
HOW IT WORKS
Art therapy offers a different way of communicating, which can be especially helpful for people who find talking about their experiences difficult. It uses visual and tactile materials to support emotional expression, allowing individuals to explore feelings and experiences in a safer, more manageable way. In addition, focusing on making art can support a sense of calm by grounding attention in the present moment and reducing anxious or repetitive thinking.
What art therapy is not.
An art class.
Within an art therapy context, art making is used as a tool of discovery, to encourage curiosity, improve lateral problem solving and build meaningful connections with oneself and others.
You are more creative than you think.
What is Art Therapy?
Individual and group sessions are available.
Getting started involves complimentary 15 minute introductory conversation over the phone or in a location that is comfortable for you.
Each individual session is 60 minutes.
There are three options:
Face to face in the studio $150/hour
A Face to face home visit $150/hour + travel
Online $120 /hour
For NDIS clients, the fee schedule is $156.16 per hour, in accordance with NDIS pricing guidelines.
Art materials are supplied for the Face to Face sessions, with adjustments made for online sessions.
For group sessions, it is best that you email your interest and questions to me via the contact form below.
Art Therapy in Schools
I am a passionate advocate for ensuring every school in NSW has access to an art therapist, and I invite educators, school leaders, administrators, and executive staff to join this valuable conversation.
Working, together, we can examine how art therapy can support student wellbeing, complement existing school services, and respond to the specific needs of each school community.
If you are interested in learning more about how art therapy could be integrated culturally and consciously into your school, I would love to hear from you. Please reach out via the contact form below to take the next step toward building creative wellbeing support available to every NSW student.
Please email me here .
Services
Frequently Asked Questions
How can I schedule an appointment with Frank Art Therapy?
Best practice is to send me an email at hello@frankarttherapy.com.au. That way, I can better understand your needs and provide the support that's most helpful to you.
Where is Frank Art Therapy located?
As I work on a more permanent situation, I presently run sessions in and around Sydney’s inner west - Marrickville and Newtown - with potential to meet clients in the Northmead, Parramatta, & Blacktown areas. I also offer home and online visits.
Does Frank Art Therapy provide services for children & adults?
Yes absolutely! No one is excluded.
What does a session cost?
Face to face sessions are $150/hour, with online sessions at $120/hour. Sessions that fall under NDIS are $156.16 according to their guidelines. That said, if finances are a little tight right now, I'm always happy to have a confidential conversation and see what might be possible.
How can art therapy help with managing anxiety & stress?
Art therapy can be an effective way to manage anxiety and stress because it gives your mind and body an opportunity to process emotions without relying solely on words. The creative process itself can be calming, and may reveal thoughts and feelings that are difficult to express.
Can art therapy be beneficial for children experiencing emotional regulation issues?
Art therapy can be particularly beneficial for children who experience difficulties with emotional regulation. Many children find it easier to express their thoughts and feelings through creative activities than through words alone, it a gentle and engaging way to explore emotions and develop healthy coping skills.
What can I expect during my first art therapy session?
Because everyone's needs and goals are different, every session is tailored to the individual. As art therapy is client-led, be reassured that you will guide the direction, pace, and focus of the session based on what feels most important to you.
I read all your questions, thoughts and suggestions. For enquiries regarding sessions, please use the form below or the direct email address. ☀️