Art therapy and counselling

This research area is concerned with counselling and the practice of using art to support health recovery.

The Counselling and Art Therapy research group undertake an innovative practice-based research program in the disciplines of counselling psychology, professional counselling and psychotherapy, and art therapy. The principal research expertise of the group involves research relevant to enhancing psychological wellbeing of individuals, couples, families and communities; and to enhance evidence-based workforce development and professional practice in these professions.

Key themes in the current research agenda include: counselling process and outcomes research; couple therapy; supervision of psychotherapy; art therapy; development of the counselling, art therapy, and psychotherapy workforce; family violence; family mediation; mental health; art practices and mental health; women’s health. Researchers collaborate with researchers from other research units within La Trobe such as: the Australian Research Centre for Sex, Health and Society; the Bouverie Family Centre; Human Communication; the Palliative Care Unit; and Psychological Sciences. There are also established collaborations with external bodies including: the Australian Longitudinal Study on Women’s Health; the Australian Institute of Family Studies; Mind Australia; Prahran Mission; Relationships Australia Victoria; and a range of Universities.

Potential PhD topics

The Department will consider any research topic that interests potential PhD students; however, students will benefit from researching in areas that align with the Faculty’s research strengths.  Please find a relevant supervisor to discuss your PhD topic.

Alternatively you may contact one of our academics below to discuss your area of interest.