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Attuned Collective: Shining A Spotlight On Mental Health and Wellbeing for Artists

We are a multidisciplinary hub of psychologists, creative arts therapists, social workers, and allied health professionals based in Adelaide, committed to meeting the unique needs of Australia’s arts community — starting in South Australia and expanding as our resources and programs grow.

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Why Artists Need Tailored Support

Studies in Australia and overseas consistently indicate that people in the arts experience higher rates of depression, anxiety, and problematic substance use than the general population. Multiple surveys (Eynde et al., 2016; Support Act, 2022) show that mental distress among artists can be over twice as prevalent as in other sectors, heightened by issues like unpredictable schedules, low income, and performance pressures. Alarmingly, recent data also highlights significantly elevated levels of suicidal thinking.

Among the most common challenges is performance anxiety, affecting musicians, dancers, actors, visual artists, and more. While some turn to quick fixes—like beta-blockers or alcohol—research increasingly supports professional interventions that cater to the demands of a creative career. Approaches such as Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), and group-based strategies not only reduce anxiety but also help normalise shared concerns about stage fright and mental wellbeing.

Attuned Collective arose to fill these gaps, aiming to provide compassionate, evidence-based, and artist-centred support. Our mission is to make mental health care as integral to the creative process as rehearsals and warm-ups—empowering artists to thrive.

Stay In Touch With Attuned Collective

Stay In Touch With Attuned Collective

The Attuned Collective will send occasional updates to our community when there are new initiatives and services to be shared, or when we are seeking input and support. We won't spam you, nor will we sell your details.

Our Services: A Holistic Approach

At Attuned Collective, we recognise that artists need mental health support tailored to their distinctive challenges—such as performance anxiety, irregular work schedules, and creative pressures. Our multidisciplinary team combines clinical expertise, lived experience in the arts, and a commitment to holistic care. Below you’ll find an overview of the key services we offer, each designed to meet artists where they are and empower them to flourish onstage and beyond.

Individual Therapy

We offer one-on-one sessions with psychologists, social workers, or creative arts therapists. Using evidence-based approaches such as CBT and ACT, we address anxiety, depression, burnout, addiction, and other challenges prevalent in artistic careers.

Employee Assistance

For organisations or venues employing artists, our tailored Employee Assistance services provide confidential mental health support. This ensures creatives have rapid access to clinicians who understand the demands of the arts sector.

Workshops & Seminars

Our interactive sessions—both in-person and online—cover topics like stress management, performance anxiety, building resilience, and self-care strategies. These can be adapted to schools, universities, arts organisations, or community groups.

Peer Support Networks

We facilitate peer mentoring and group forums where artists can connect, share experiences, and learn from one another. These networks help reduce isolation and stigma, fostering a sense of community.

Art Therapy

Through art, movement, music, and dance, our registered creative arts therapists help clients process emotions, enhance creativity, and develop healthier coping mechanisms in a supportive environment.

Performance Enhancement Coaching

Distinct from therapy, these coaching sessions focus on optimising stage presence, mental skills, and goal-setting. Ideal for those looking to refine their craft without necessarily needing clinical intervention.

Voice Coaching

Specialised support for performers and speakers looking to improve vocal technique, manage vocal strain, and build confidence—whether for singing, acting, or public speaking.

Group Therapy

From mindfulness-based programs to performance-focused groups, we offer small-group sessions facilitated by mental health professionals experienced in the arts.

Digital & Printed Resources

We’re developing meditations, guides, and other tools specifically designed for creative professionals. These can be accessed online or distributed at workplaces and events.

Workplace Education

Our team provides training on psychological safety, mental health awareness, and resilience strategies to foster healthier, more supportive arts environments—onstage, backstage, and beyond.

Consultation for Arts Projects

For directors or producers tackling mental health themes in their work, we offer expert consultation to ensure accurate, respectful portrayal and safe working conditions for cast and crew.

Somatic Practices

We integrate yoga, mindful movement, and trauma-informed bodywork to help artists reconnect with their physical selves—especially beneficial for those who find purely cognitive approaches less effective.

Future Partnerships & Services

As we grow, we aim to include physiotherapists, speech pathologists, audiologists, and other relevant practitioners—offering a truly holistic, mind–body approach tailored to the needs of individual performers.

Download Our Submission

Download Our Submission

Download a PDF of our submission for the SA Mental Health Commissioner's Community Mental Health Boost Grant

Meet our members

Here is a brief introduction to members of the Attuned Collective

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Alexandra Frost

Founder of Attuned Collective, Clinical and Performance Psychologist, Family Therapist, Vocalist

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Tanya Voges

Creative Arts Therapist, Dance Artist

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Shankari Sundaram

Senior Mental Health Clinician, Mental Health Social Worker, Psychotherapist

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Eduardo Sacco Caprotti

Exercise and sport scientist/ High performance coach

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Sarah Collyer

Registered Psychologist in private practice (Rise Consulting) Performance psychology as a focus, Professional Singer/Vocal Coach

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Abigail Jenkins

Arts Therapist and Dance Movement Therapist. Lived Experience in the Arts - Dancer/Choreographer.

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Alexandra Lopez

Brand voice strategist and specialist coach (Alexandra Lopez Studios) for emerging artists, particularly those transitioning into the voiceover industry from other professions. Dance, music, acting, voiceover work

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Nicole Hendry

Registered Psychologist

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Brett Williams

Family Therapist and Business Counsellor/Advisor

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Steve Davis

Marketing Consultant, Arts Critic, Performer

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some of the questions we have already fielded. We hope they help.

Absolutely. Many of our clinicians offer flexible appointment times, including evenings or weekends, and online sessions. We understand the irregularities of creative work and strive to accommodate your schedule.

Yes. Performance anxiety is one of the most common challenges for artists. Our therapists and coaches—some with performing backgrounds—use evidence-based methods like CBT, ACT, and mindfulness to build practical, sustainable coping skills.

We offer a range of options, including bulk-billing or reduced-fee sessions for eligible clients, and group programs that can be more affordable. We’re also exploring funding partnerships to broaden access to low-cost or subsidised care.

We’re based in Adelaide with a primary focus on supporting South Australian artists. However, as our network expands, we plan to offer more online and interstate services, so please reach out no matter where you are located.

We welcome discussions about grants, sponsorships, or other collaborations that enable us to develop and extend our programs. Your support helps us reach more artists in need and advance the overall wellbeing of the arts community.

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Links to articles and resources

Here is a small but growing list of articles written by Attuned Collective members, and other items we hope you'll find helpful.

Contact Us

Thank you! Your enquiry has been sent successfully.

Address

278 Melbourne St, North Adelaide SA 5006, Australia

Phone

08 8361 7008

Email

reception@attunedcollective.com.au

ABN

41626315893