Healing Through Art - Online Group Therapy
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Healing Through Art - Online Group Therapy β’
Gentle, structured support for trauma recovery through creative expression
Healing Through Art is a trauma-informed online group therapy programme delivered under the ACC Sensitive Claims Service. This six-week group uses expressive arts and somatic practices to support emotional regulation, safety and healing.
What Is Expressive Arts Therapy?
Expressive arts therapy uses creative processes such as drawing, colouring, and working with simple materials - as a way to connect with the body and emotions without relying on words.
The focus is on process rather than outcome. There is no βrightβ way to create and artistic experience is not required.
Weekly Themes
Over six weeks, the group gently explores:
Week 1: Establishing Safety & Grounding
Week 2: Exploring Self & Identity
Week 3: Working with Emotions
Week 4: Meaning-Making & Reframing
Week 5: Strength, Resilience & Resources
Week 6: Integration & Moving Forward
What to Expect
Each session follows the same predictable format to support safety and ease:
A grounding activity to help settle and regulate
A guided expressive art activity linked to the weekly theme
Journaling prompts for reflection and integration
Participants are never required to speak, share artwork, or disclose personal experiences.
How Itβs Delivered
Online via Zoom
Cameras and microphones off
Option to ask questions via chat function
Small, closed group
Sessions are not recorded
Basic art materials are required, such as paper and pens, pencils, crayons, or markers. Participants are encouraged to use what they already have.
Who This Group Is For
This group may be suitable for adults (18+) who:
Are ACC Sensitive Claims clients
Are currently engaged in individual therapy with a lead provider
Can tolerate mild to moderate emotional discomfort
Are open to creative, non-verbal approaches
Have access to a private space and internet for online sessions
Referrals are made by ACC Lead Providers, and suitability is confirmed prior to enrolment.
Dates & Location:
First Cohort (Term 1), 12 spaces available:
ποΈ Mondays | 7 PM β 8 PM
π Online via Zoom
π 1st of March to the 2nd of April, 2026
More dates to come, please check back for future rounds.
Referral Process
Referrals to the Healing Through Art β Online Group Therapy are made by ACC Lead Providers.
Complete the online referral form linked below
Referrals are reviewed to confirm suitability and safety
If provisionally accepted, a Purchase Order (PO) is requested prior to group commencement
Once the PO is received, intake and consent are completed and the participant is enrolled
π Complete the Referral Form
*Any questions about groups should be directed to admin@mikaylamary.com
Facilitators: A Mother Daughter Duo
Mikayla Mary (Lead Facilitator) β A highly experienced trauma therapist, qualified counsellor and ACC ISSC-approved lead provider. Mikayla integrates expressive arts therapy, somatic practices and trauma-informed approaches to support healing.
Rachael Hay (Co-Facilitator) β A dedicated expressive arts facilitator in creative education and community arts. Rachael brings a deep understanding of artistic expression and therapeutic engagement.
Mikayla Mary (Lead Facilitator)
Rachael Hay (Co-Facilitator)
Healing Through Art - Day Retreat
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Healing Through Art - Day Retreat β’
Day retreat coming soon! Based in Upper Hutt for women/wΔhine under ACC SCS. Come back soon for more information on dates and enrolment.