Many people working in the arts and creative industries are experiencing burnout, exacerbated by the last few years when COVID lockdowns decimated the industry. Many are finding it difficult to recover and experiencing a hopelessness about an uncertain future. Often, artists will reach out to psychologists and other therapists for support, yet when they do too often they report that their psychologist finds it hard to understand their industry and just doesn’t ‘get it.’  People who work in the arts and creative industries (e.g., musicians, actors, arts workers) are also shown to be at greater risk of anxiety, depression and mental ill health compared to the general population.

This workshop aims to ensure that when you see clients from the arts community, they feel you ‘get it.’ To do this Chris Cheers will apply his experience as both an arts worker and psychologist to present some of the key aspects of this work that challenge wellbeing and stability of identity. Chris will also offer: 

• some strategies he uses to help artists build resilience, manage their arts identity and anchor themselves to purpose in challenging times 
• an understanding as to what parts of this industry are a risk for mental health, and 
• practical strategies to help ensure your clients from these industries feel understood and supported in their mental health care.
  
  

Chris Cheers is a psychologist, author, and educator with a focus on elevating mental health in the Arts and LGBTIQA+ communities. Before training as a psychologist, Chris worked for arts organisations across Australia, developing a rich understanding of the industry which Chris applies to his specialised mental health care of artists and arts workers. 

Chris has conducted workshops and consultations with the Rising Festival, Melbourne Theatre Company, Melbourne Fringe Festival, National Gallery of Victoria, Arts Wellbeing Collective (Arts Centre Melbourne), National Institute of Dramatic Arts, Arts House and various independent theatre productions and films. Chris is also a regular contributor in the media featured on the 7am podcast, ABC Radio National, The Guardian, and The Age. Chris published his first book, The New Rulebook in 2023. 

He is a university lecturer, member of the Australian Professional Association for Transgender Health, and PhD candidate at the Centre for Alcohol and Policy Research at La Trobe University.

Webinar timing: 7:00 – 8:00 pm AEST

Access to the recording of this webinar: A recording of this webinar will be available through the CPD Webinar Library, but for the best experience and the opportunity to ask your questions, join us live. Everyone who registers will be advised via email as soon as the recording is available. Members have unlimited access to the recording, and non-members will have access for 6 months.