Expressive Art Therapy + Sound Healing for Mental Health

As children, we were all artists.
In this session, we begin by reclaiming the innate sense of creativity and free expression that each of us naturally possesses, independent of any judgments of skill or ability. Through various forms of self-expression and inner dialogue, participants will aim to rediscover their 'true self' (the voice of the soul) that has been unconsciously suppressed, and work towards integrating it with their conscious awareness. During this process, you may experience the healing of deep emotional wounds, traumas, and profound grief that have been hidden in the depths of the subconscious. You will also be guided to share this inner voice with others, eventually connecting to a sense of self-worth and the meaning of life.
Expressive arts therapy aims to foster a healing environment that supports mental well-being. By creatively engaging with different modalities such as art, dance/movement, drama, music, poetry, and more, this therapy allows individuals to explore and connect with their inner selves. It offers a unique avenue to understand and express one's body, emotions, and thoughts in a holistic way.
As the number of people suffering from mental health issues increases rapidly each year, this session is facilitated by experienced professionals (a doctor and a counseling therapist), ensuring a safe and supportive environment for all participants. (Please consult your physician before booking if you are currently undergoing treatment with a psychiatrist or mental health specialist.)
Please note that the contents and schedule may be subject to change. Be sure to book in advance and provide an email address where you can be reached.
We look forward to meeting you.
*5-13 October is Mental Health Week in Queensland."

[ SESSION DATES & CONTENTS ]
Please note that the contents and schedule may be subject to change.
- 21 September
Session 1: "Listening to Your Inner Voice" (Sound and Voice)

-28 September
Session 2: "Self-Expression Through Colors and Shapes" (Color and Shape)

-5 October
Session 3: "Releasing Rhythm and Movement" (Movement)

-26 October * (upstairs)
Session 4: "Connecting with Nature" (Natural Crafts)

-9 November
Session 5: "The Power of Kotodama" (Words and Calligraphy)

-23 November
Session 6: "Personal History and Stories" (Stories and Clay)

-30 November
Session 7: "Self-Affirmation and Gratitude" (Journal and Dialogue)

-7 December
Session 8: "Creating Your Ideal Future" (Vision Board and Affirmations)
*All eight sessions include :
-sound healing
-guided meditation
-sharing circles
-light physical excersize
-expressive art therapy
-doctor's talk
-sharing circle

[ SESSION TIME ]
3:00 - 5:30pm
[ VENUE ]
Mermaid Beach Community Center – Ground Floor
2439 Gold Coast Highway, Mermaid Beach

[FACILITATORS PROFILE ]
Dr Ahmed Ramadan
MBBCh FRACGP Post Grad Dip Surgical Anatomy
Dr Ahmed Ramadan obtained his medical degree from Cairo University Hospital in Egypt in 1996. He was specialised in Trauma Care and General Surgical Training at The Royal College of Surgeons in London. Then he was offered a Surgical Scholarship in Japan, studying Neck & Endocrine surgery.obtained his medical degree from Cairo University Hospital in Egypt in 1996. He was specialised in Trauma Care and General Surgical Training at The Royal College of Surgeons in London. Then he was offered a Surgical Scholarship in Japan, studying Neck & Endocrine surgery.

Dr Ahmed settled on the Gold Coast and practiced Surgery, Trauma Care, Accident and Emergency Occupational Medicine, and General Practice Fellow to the Royal College of general practitioners since 2018.
Currently, alongside his practice as a skin specialist, he is also active as a musician and artist. Through his extensive experience, he deeply understands the profound connection between the mind and body, and he is passionate about promoting people's mental and physical well-being using holistic methods such as expressive arts, meditation, and breathing techniques.
Chiho Kagawa
Grad.DipEd, Dip Hol Coun, Cert. Sound & Colour Healing, Hypnotherapy

Chiho is a qualified Sound Healer and musician who has been playing, holding events, and leading workshops internationally for over two decades. She studied Expressive Arts Therapy in Japan and completed a Diploma of Holistic Counselling at Sophia College, focusing on Rudolf Steiner’s Anthroposophy-based art therapy.

Chiho has explored a wide range of holistic healing modalities, therapies, and counseling methods, including Reiki, Hypnotherapy, Breathwork, Vipassana Meditation, NLP, and EFT, gaining profound insights into energy healing and mental health.

Last year, she was invited to speak at "The Healing Power of Music" forum at the Queensland Conservatorium, Griffith University, as part of "The Ground Beneath Us" festival. There, she shared her experiences as a sound healer and her miraculous recovery from terminal cancer after staying in palliative care for 50 days. Chiho has also been invited to speak and perform at various schools, conferences, and events, where she introduces her unique journey through her talks and music.

In addition to being an active musician and singer, Chiho is deeply passionate about supporting people's healing through a variety of modalities through group therapy environment as well as one on one therapy.

Host or Publisher Chiho