If a Paint and Sip and a Women’s Circle had a baby, that would be dahlia Therapeutic Art!
Hello, and welcome!
I’m Hayley, a therapeutic art facilitator, chocoholic and the mother of two wonderful, funny, energetic kids!
My inspiration for creating Dahlia Therapeutic Art began in 2020. During Covid lockdowns, I used art to cope with the stress and anxiety of being thrust into mothering 24/7. For months, there were no playground/cafe catch ups with other mums, no sleepovers at their grandparents house, no daycare or school. Whilst I was incredibly grateful my husband was still employed full time, and my family was safe and healthy, I honestly felt like a robot!
Doing arts and crafts was my happy place, my “unicorn space”.
Once the world returned to a new normal, I was left with a newfound drive to understand why being creative felt so good, which led me to studying Art Therapy at Western Sydney University in March 2023. I began to understand WHY making mindful art was so healing for me and now I want to share that with YOU!
I named my business after the dahlia flower because dahlia’s respresent inner strength, positive change and commitment, three important and foundational qualities I wish to bring to my business.
Through these women/mother circles, I am honoured to support each woman’s personal journey with creativity as a tool for self-discovery. Whether you’re here to process your emotions, tap into your creativity, or simply find a moment of peace, I am here to welcome and support you.
qualifications
Graduate certificate, art therapy
In 2024, I completed my Graduate Diploma in Art Therapy at Western Sydney University. Over two years, I immersed myself in studying art therapy, including practical group therapy workshops and counseling units. This hands-on experience has deepened my understanding of how art can be used as a powerful tool for healing and self-expression.
I’m excited to bring a deeper level of care and expertise to my circles, offering a safe, supportive space for every participant to grow through creativity.
pinot ‘n’ picasso artist/host
Before starting women's/mother’s circles, I taught at a paint-and-sip studio, where I had the pleasure of guiding hundreds of people through step-by-step instructions to create beautiful works of art. It was such a rewarding experience, helping people of all skill levels discover their creative potential while having fun in a relaxed, social setting.
Whether it was their first time picking up a paintbrush or they were seasoned artists, I loved seeing the joy and confidence that came with every stroke of paint—and I'm excited to bring that same energy and creativity to my circles!