Course: Essentials of Art As Therapy

Anne-Claire Hoyaux will be offering a hands-on introduction to the principles and practice of art therapy. Designed for anyone curious about the healing power of arts, this retreat offers a unique blend of learning, self-exploration, and creative expression in a supportive small group setting.

Through guided art-making sessions and reflective exercises, you’ll experience firsthand how artistic processes can support emotional well-being, mental health, and personal growth. You will discover a multimodal approach which weaves together various art media, including painting, drawing, writing, 3D creations, theatre improvisation, movement, and audiovisuals.

No artistic skills or background in psychology are required for this introductory course — simply a willingness to explore and engage. You will leave with practical tools and insights to begin integrating art as a therapeutic resource in your personal or professional life, along with a deeper understanding of the transformative potential of creativity.

The retreat will also introduce you to the foundations of the therapist’s posture, learning how to receive emotions with presence, hold a safe, non-judgmental and containing space, and maintain the delicate balance between empathy and therapeutic distance.

In between the introductory sessions to art therapy, you will have the possibility to enjoy yoga lessons, wine and olive tasting, local healthy food, and countryside walks. There will also be a chance for you to visit the beautiful Alentejo towns of Monsaraz and Evora.

The course will take place in a beautiful domain in Monsaraz: Sofia in Monsaraz. Pre-bookings are open. Details and link here. The retreat is confirmed with a minimum of 8 participants.

Languages: The course will be delivered in English. Portuguese and French spoken too.

Anne-Claire Hoyaux is a certified art therapist and professional coach based in Lisbon, Portugal. To know more about her work visit her website or her social media.