A Colourful Step Forward for Participants Across Australia
Are you in search of Art Theraphy NDIS?
Art therapy under the National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS) is gaining traction as one of the most beneficial allied health therapies available to support mental health, communication skills, and emotional regulation. For many NDIS participants, traditional talk therapy can be overwhelming or ineffective, especially for those living with autism, cognitive delays, or emotional trauma. That’s where creative arts therapies come in: to offer a different way of processing emotions, improve social interaction, and boost quality of life.
What Is Art Therapy?
Art therapy is a form of psychotherapy facilitated by qualified art therapists. Using visual arts and art and music activities such as drawing, painting, collage, and sculpture, participants express thoughts and emotions that may be difficult to verbalise. These sessions are guided by trained mental health professionals and allied health professionals, allowing for a personalised and safe space for exploration and healing.
According to the Australian, New Zealand and Asian Creative Arts Therapies Association (ANZACATA), art therapy is considered part of the creative arts and allied health fields. It can be used across all age groups, from early childhood to older adults, and is effective for managing mental health challenges, trauma, disability, and more.
The Role of Art Therapists
Qualified art therapists are trained to use creative processes in therapeutic contexts. These professionals work alongside other allied health professionals to develop customised treatment plans tailored to each participant’s needs. Their role is not only to guide artistic expression but also to help NDIS participants make sense of their inner world in a safe, structured, and empowering environment.
Mental Health Professionals and Art Therapy
Mental health professionals—including psychologists, social workers, and counsellors—often collaborate with art therapists to offer integrated care. For individuals experiencing mental health challenges, this partnership strengthens outcomes by combining clinical assessments with creative exploration, offering a more comprehensive path to healing.
Is Art Therapy Covered by the NDIS?
Yes. Art therapy NDIS coverage falls under Capacity Building supports—specifically the “Improved Daily Living” budget. This funding stream allows access to other allied health professionals and therapies, including art and music therapy. Participants can use their NDIS funding to engage in regular sessions with qualified therapists either face-to-face or through online sessions, particularly helpful for those in regional areas.
To access art therapy under the NDIS, participants must demonstrate how this beneficial therapy supports their NDIS goals, such as improving emotional regulation, building communication skills, or increasing independence. A functional assessment from a registered therapist or mental health professional can provide the necessary evidence.
Why Not Just Traditional Talk Therapy?
For many people living with a disability or mental health condition, words alone aren’t always enough. Traditional talk therapy relies heavily on verbal articulation. But art therapy offers a non-verbal channel to process emotions, particularly for individuals with speech or communication barriers.
By engaging with creative arts, participants begin to form emotional connections, explore trauma or behavioural patterns, and unlock new ways of thinking and being. And that’s the beauty of art — it speaks when words fail, offering immense benefit to those who engage with it .
A Look Into the Current NDIS Landscape
In late 2024, changes were proposed to reduce NDIS funding for art and music therapy, which prompted an independent review of the funding structure . A new pricing guide introduced tighter criteria and promoted group sessions at the same rate as individual sessions. This shift raised concerns among mental health professionals, participants, and other allied health professionals alike.
Independent Review of NDIS Art Therapy Funding
Due to widespread feedback and professional advocacy, an independent review was commissioned. As of 2025, this review is proceeding, with final recommendations pending. In the meantime, access to art therapy remains available under Capacity Building — and providers like Re.Connect Support Services are helping individuals respond and adapt accordingly.
The Benefits of Art and Music Therapy
Engaging in art and music therapy provides many advantages, especially for those navigating mental health challenges or living with disability:
- Enhanced emotional regulation
- Improved communication and social interaction
- Reduction in anxiety and behavioural episodes
- Increased self-esteem and identity formation
- Motor skill development and sensory regulation
These therapies are especially impactful for autism, PTSD, ADHD, and acquired brain injury. Whether through paint, sound, or sculpture, NDIS participants often discover a deeper connection with themselves and the world around them.
Accessing Art Therapy with Re.Connect Support Services
At Re.Connect Support Services, we believe everyone deserves the opportunity to engage in therapies that feel meaningful, supportive, and human. Here’s how we help you access art therapy through the NDIS:
Step 1: Understanding Your Goals
We start by clarifying your NDIS goals and understanding how art therapy, led by a qualified therapist, can help you achieve them—from regulating emotions to building confidence or strengthening relationships.
Step 2: Coordinating the Right Support
Our experienced coordinators connect you with qualified art therapists and allied health professionals in your area or through online sessions.
Step 3: Helping With the Paperwork
We assist in preparing functional assessments, therapy reports, and submission paperwork required to justify the inclusion of art therapy in your plan.
Step 4: Advocating for You During Reviews
Whether it’s a scheduled plan review or a reassessment due to life changes, we’ll be by your side to ensure your therapy needs are well represented and backed with clinical evidence.
Creative Therapies in Regional Areas and Online
For participants in regional areas, access to creative arts therapies can be a challenge. That’s why we also support online sessions that include art and music activities with qualified therapists across Australia. Telehealth is recognised by the NDIS and is often the most practical option for consistent care.
We work to ensure continuity of therapy no matter where you are. Because healing should never be limited by postcode.
Why Choose Re.Connect Support Services?
We’re more than just Support Coordinators—we’re partners in your wellness journey. Our team understands how powerful creative arts can be in transforming lives. We approach each case with warmth, professionalism, and a bit of fun.
Whether you’re an NDIS participant exploring your options or a carer seeking new supports for a loved one, Re.Connect is here to help you step forward with confidence.
Let’s Make Space for Creativity, Healing & Growth of your Mental Health
In a world filled with noise, art therapy gives you a voice. A brushstroke becomes a breakthrough. A song becomes safety. A sculpture becomes strength.
With NDIS funding available and professional support from Re.Connect, your journey into art and music therapy is only a conversation away. Let’s talk.
Need help navigating your NDIS plan or adding art therapy to your supports? Reach out to Re.Connect Support Services today and discover how we can help you connect with the creative therapies that empower your everyday life.
