Services

Trent Street Studio
Art Therapy Services

Open Wednesdays and Fridays 10:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m.

- Open Studio - - Artist in Residence - - Community Transition - Trent St. Studio Victoria Mental Health Centre 2328 Trent Street Basement Phone: 250-598-6496

Mission Statement

To use art making in a supportive group setting to enhance the health, well-being and functioning of people with addictions and mental health issues.

Program Description

The open studio provides a supportive environment for the exploration of various artistic media and development of artistic skills. It promots individual self expression and goal setting and allows for opportunities for participation in open house art shows.

Goals

• To enhance participant’s confidence, self-esteem and self-determination.
• To strengthen participant’s communication skills, problem solving, and risk taking strategies.
• To explore mediums and tools to support creative self expression.
• To help improve participant’s isolation, anxiety and depression.
• To help prevent escalation of mental illness and addictions.

An external evaluation completed in April 1998 (CHR Art Therapy Services Evaluation, published by BC School of Art Therapy) found the services highly effective in advancing all five of these goals.

Criteria for Participants

• Interest in art making; but previous training is not necessary.
• Under the care of a psychiatrist or approved health professional.
• Commitment to regular attendance.
• Ability to engage in interpersonal relationships in a positive and supportive way.
• Cooperative attitude and behavior with art therapists and participants.
• Open communication with art therapists about needs.
• Responsible attitude towards own progress.
• Respectful use of art materials and the facilities.

Access Procedure

• Health professional referral
• Submit internal Mental Health Referral Form to Victoria Mental Health reception
• Intake throughout the year as spaces open up

Flow Through

• Participants have up to one year in program
• Progress and goals reviewed on a regular basis
• Assistance with placement to other community programs

Facilitated by the BC School of Art Therapy

Funded by the Vancouver Island Health Authority