Sharon Veness
Transpersonal Art Therapist and Holistic Counsellor
Sharon Veness
Transpersonal Art Therapist and Holistic Counsellor
Waves of Creativity
A Beach Art Journaling Workshop
Are you dreaming of the beach?
Whether it’s the sound of the waves, the feel of the sand between your toes, or the vibrant colors of a seaside sunset, the beach has a way of capturing our hearts.
Why not turn those daydreams into beautiful art?
Join us on October 26 at 3 PM for an inspiring online workshop where we’ll dive into the world of beach-themed art journaling. Whether you’re an experienced artist or just love to doodle, this workshop is for you! Get ready to let your creativity flow and bring the beach to life on the pages of your journal.
📅 Date: October 26, 2024
⏰ Time: 3 PM
🖥 Where: Online via ZoomWhy You’ll Love This Workshop:
Connect with fellow creatives who share your love for the beach.
Learn fun and simple techniques to capture the essence of the ocean in your art journal.
No experience needed—just bring your imagination and love for the sea!
How to Register:
👉 Meetup: https://www.meetup.com/creativeabundancecommunity/events/303206306/?utm_medium=referral&utm_campaign=share-btn_savedevents_share_modal&utm_source=link
👉 Eventbrite:
https://www.eventbrite.com/e/waves-of-creativity-a-beach-art-journaling-workshop-tickets-1007256189377
Spots are limited, so don’t miss out on this chance to escape to the beach through art. We can’t wait to see you there!
🌴 Let’s make some waves together! 🌴
Understanding Autism:
Breaking Down Myths and Facts
Understanding Autism:
Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) affects millions of individuals worldwide, yet misconceptions about it persist. By breaking down myths and presenting facts, we can foster a better understanding and create a more inclusive society. In this blog post, we’ll address some of the most common myths about autism and provide accurate information to dispel them.
Myth 1: Autism is a Rare Condition
Fact: Autism is not rare. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), approximately 1 in 36 children in the United States is diagnosed with autism. The prevalence of autism has been increasing, partly due to improved awareness and diagnostic practices.
Myth 2: People with Autism Don’t Have Emotions
Fact: Individuals with autism experience a full range of emotions just like anyone else. They might express their feelings differently or have difficulty interpreting others’ emotions, but this does not mean they lack emotional depth.
Myth 3: Vaccines Cause Autism
Fact: Numerous studies have shown no link between vaccines and autism. This myth originated from a discredited study published in 1998, which has since been retracted. The medical community, including organizations like the CDC and the World Health Organization (WHO), agree that vaccines do not cause autism.
Myth 4: Autism Only Affects Children
Fact: Autism is a lifelong condition. While it is typically diagnosed in childhood, individuals with autism grow up to be adults with autism. Their needs and challenges may change over time, but autism does not disappear with age.
Myth 5: All Individuals with Autism Have Intellectual Disabilities
Fact: Autism is a spectrum, meaning it affects individuals differently. Some people with autism may have intellectual disabilities, while others may have average or above-average intelligence. Many individuals with autism have exceptional talents and skills in specific areas.
Myth 6: People with Autism Cannot Form Meaningful Relationships
Fact: People with autism can and do form meaningful relationships. They may have unique ways of socializing and communicating, but with understanding and support, they can build strong connections with family, friends, and partners.
Myth 7: Autism Can Be Cured
Fact: There is no cure for autism. It is a neurodevelopmental condition that is part of an individual's identity. The goal of support and intervention is not to cure autism but to help individuals with autism lead fulfilling lives and reach their full potential.
Myth 8: Autism is Caused by Poor Parenting
Fact: Autism is not caused by parenting styles or household environment. It is a complex condition with multiple contributing factors, including genetics and early brain development. Blaming parents is not only inaccurate but also harmful.
Myth 9: All Individuals with Autism Have Savant Abilities
Fact: While some individuals with autism may have exceptional skills or savant abilities, such as extraordinary memory or artistic talent, this is not common to all. The portrayal of savant skills in media can create unrealistic expectations and misunderstandings about the everyday experiences of most people with autism.
Myth 10: People with Autism Prefer to Be Alone
Fact: While some individuals with autism may enjoy solitude, this is not true for everyone. Many people with autism desire social interaction and friendships but may struggle with the social nuances that others take for granted. With support and understanding, they can enjoy social relationships.
Promoting Understanding and AcceptanceUnderstanding the facts about autism is crucial in promoting acceptance and inclusion. Here are a few ways you can help:
Educate Yourself and Others: Read up on autism from reliable sources. Share accurate information to help dispel myths.
Support Autism-Friendly Practices: Advocate for inclusive practices in schools, workplaces, and communities.
Listen to Autistic Voices: Pay attention to the experiences and perspectives of people with autism. Their insights are invaluable in understanding what they need and how best to support them.
Be Patient and Compassionate: Everyone's experience with autism is unique. Patience and compassion go a long way in building supportive relationships.
By breaking down these myths and embracing the facts, we can help create a world where individuals with autism are understood, respected, and valued for who they are.
References
- Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD).
- National Autistic Society. The Myths About Autism.
- Taylor, L. E., Swerdfeger, A. L., & Eslick, G. D. (2014). Vaccines are not associated with autism: An evidence-based meta-analysis of case-control and cohort studies. Vaccine, 32(29), 3623-3629.
- Jain, A., Marshall, J., Buikema, A., Bancroft, T., Kelly, J. P., & Newschaffer, C. J. (2015). Autism occurrence by MMR vaccine status among US children with older siblings with and without autism. JAMA, 313(15), 1534-1540.
- World Health Organization (WHO). Vaccine Safety Basics e-learning course.
- National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH). Autism Spectrum Disorder.
- American Psychiatric Association. Autism Spectrum Disorder.
- Autism Society. Living With Autism. Link
- National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke (NINDS). Autism Spectrum Disorder Fact Sheet.
- Mayo Clinic. Autism spectrum disorder.
- Treffert, D. A. (2009). The savant syndrome: an extraordinary condition. A synopsis: past, present, future. Philosophical Transactions of the Royal Society B: Biological Sciences, 364(1522), 1351-1357.
- Autism Speaks. Social Skills and Autism.
What to expect from an art therapy session with me?
Testimonials
David Johnson
I went to Sharon Veness Art Therapy’s Manifestations 2023 event this morning at Sharon’s Studio in Narellan Vale.
It was much more than just creating a Vision Board by sticking pictures on it. Sharon led us all on guided meditations to firstly, ‘Say Goodbye to 2022’ and secondly, ‘Enter 2023’.
Using pictures, art materials of our choice and our emotional experiences we then commenced constructing our Manifestation Boards for 2023.
It was a challenging and wonderful experience all rolled into one.
Highly recommend it. Thank you Sharon for expertise, insights and encouragement.
Tracey Mekitarian
Thank you, Sharon Veness @Creative Abundance Community for an amazing 2023 Dream Manifestation workshop this morning...so powerful!
Lorna Hollinger
Almost six years ago I engaged Sharon Veness as my business coach and Mentor, and my business has never looked back! I was determined to shift my business into a brand new space in my industry and to get all the success I wanted. It was a lot of work and Sharon helped me do this. I reached six figures in less than 3 years and haven’t looked back. Sharon’s ability to see business blind spots is incredible. Sharon’s ability to see your personal blocks is scarily accurate, but she has such a lovely manner to her guiding you to success. I wouldn’t be where I am today without her.
Miss L
I can’t thank you enough for our sessions. Australian Tapping Institute has now been born. It has an identity, and I am so confident it is now going to fly. Your help with the strategy was invaluable. I couldn’t have done that without you. Holding me accountable, well that wasn’t always pleasant, but without it, I would not have achieved what I have.
Kelly
Sharon brings so much passion for her craft and patience through this healing art that you walk out feeling like the world took a long overdue break from your shoulders. In a fun, connected and welcoming ambience, Sharon guides you through an intimate exploration of your conscious and subconscious mind while allowing your higher energies to merge in to the manifestation of holistic art. I couldn’t recommend Sharon’s holistic art sessions more strongly. I’m very grateful and excited to be a member of the nighttime group sessions. 😄🧡💜💚💓💫
Kathy
Thank you, Sharon, for an amazing session today. Allowing me to express and bring out my creativity. Such a wonderful, peaceful and enlightening journey. I recommend doing a creativity session for anyone wanting to release negativity and embrace possibility.
Melita
I did an art session with Sharon today. All I can say is amazeballs!! Thank you so much for taking me on a very special journey. I learnt so much about me in this process and I didn't think I could paint - BUT somehow something amazing transpired onto that canvas. ❤️
Mark Boyle
Attended an adult and child class with my 6-year-old.
Class was very enjoyable for both of us and she was really energetic and engaged well with all the children. Definitely recommend
Kezia Carpenter
I have done 2 art classes with Sharon now and will definitely be back. I have felt more relaxed and stress-free after each session. Highly recommend it even just for a night out.
Sharna Turner
Couldn’t recommend Sharon enough! Not only is she an incredible artist but the way she cares about her students is amazing! My daughter feels right at home in her class and I’ve seen such a huge improvement in her confidence since starting art class. 10/10
Marnie Adam
Thanks to Sharon Veness Energy Artist for my son’s art kit that we received today. So many awesome things included in the kit that will keep him amused for a long time! Great quality and great value, thank you.
Shaye Pickering
Could not be any happier with our Art packs!
High quality products that all ages will love!
Kids absolutely love them, huge variety of items. Kids can express their creative side with hours of fun.
Thank you so much Sharon for easy transaction and Perfect Packs!
