Hi, I’m Amy
I’m a registered art therapist based in the Maitland area. For the past four years, I’ve practiced art therapy in NDIS settings, supporting neurodiverse children and young people, as well as individuals living with disability.
My path to becoming an art therapist was shaped by many threads: witnessing gaps and disconnection in mental health support systems, my own lived experience of neurodiversity and anxiety, and early conversations with my grandmother (who is a retired guided imagery and music psychologist) about the importance of art expression. Noticing a need for arts in health led me to train as an art therapist, where I explored the psychological benefits of creative expression and learned how to offer art-based support in a safe and meaningful way.
I’m deeply committed to creating a welcoming, gentle, and safe space where people can connect to self through art to explore concerns and address needs.
My qualifications are:
Master of Art Therapy (University of Western Sydney)
Australia, New Zealand, and Asia Creative Arts Therapy Association (ANZACATA) professional member
Bachelor of Fine Art
Art therapy is a mental health profession that uses painting, drawing, clay, and collage to help individuals process emotions and explore inner experiences. It engages the body's sensory systems and emotional centers in the brain, supporting insight, personal growth, and resilience.
The tactile, rhythmic, and sensory aspects of making art have been shown to reduce cortisol levels (Kaimal, Ray, & Muniz, 2016) and support regulation of the nervous system.
Colours, images, textures, and shapes are self-expressive elements in the creative process. When approached with compassion, they help give voice to thoughts and feelings.
Would you like to start ?
Grab any art material that draws your attention. Yes, any. Let’s start by playing with it for a short while, there’s no right or wrong way. Starting can feel scary at first, I know. Or it might come with ease. My job is to make sure there is safety to explore things that feel complex, disconnected, stuck, or lost.
Explore services
Individual art therapy
Hey—life can feel really scribbly sometimes, and maybe it’s felt that way for a while. Amy offers a safe, welcoming space to explore the splatters and messiness of life through therapeutic art expression and conversation.
You don’t need any art skills to attend art therapy. It’s not about creating something that looks ‘good’—it’s about the process. Using your hands and body to make art can help express parts of yourself that may not yet have words. It’s a space for discovery instead of perfection.
Individual art therapy - children and teens
Art therapy can help your child make sense of their emotions, express their needs, build self-esteem, and develop resilience. Sometimes, there may be a particular challenge or experience your child is facing, and art therapy offers a gentle, supportive way to work through it.
Children often express themselves through art before they have the words to explain how they feel. Through creative expression, they can explore their inner world, share what’s going on for them, and feel heard and understood. With the guidance of a qualified art therapist, this process happens in a safe, caring, and ethical space designed to support your child’s emotional wellbeing.
Maitland art group for children
Art is a fundamental way for young people to connect, express, and grow. This non-clinical art group offers a supportive space where creativity is used to connect with the authentic self, nurture wellbeing, and foster a sense of belonging within a group setting. Register your interest via the contact form below.
Art materials are provided
No artistic skill is required
While art skills may be taught to guide expression, the purpose of the group is social connection through the non-verbal means of art rather than be taught or perfect art skill.
Maitland art group for adults
Yes, art is a powerful way for adults to connect too—especially in the wild and tangled moments of life. This group offers a gentle space to be in the company of others, with no pressure or expectations. You’re welcome to arrive just as you are. No need to bring anything—art materials are provided. Register your interest via the contact form below.
No artistic skill is required
While art skills may be taught to guide expression, the purpose of the group is connecting with your community through the non-verbal means of art rather than be taught or perfect art skill.
Contact Amy Lacey Art Therapy
Do you have any questions or would like to register your interest for groups? You are welcome to send a message.