Mycelial Network
Community-based, connective Arts Therapy practice
A mycelial network is an intricate underground fungal system that connects plants and trees, supporting connections and allowing information to be shared across an ecosystem.
The Mycelial Network is based around Arts Therapy practice that focuses on the relational infrastructure within the field. This terrain is all about connection and support and often includes work that takes place behind the scenes. Work in this field is based on creating and maintaining the connective threads between practitioners, communities and organisations and ensures the field remains supported and interconnected.
Working in this terrain, you might find yourself organising Art Therapy-related events, online communities and peer support groups. You may also organise conferences or community-building events, helping practitioners to connect and share knowledge, ultimately strengthening the field.
This terrain may also include those involved in Arts Therapy education and training programs such as lecturers, trainers and clinical educators who support emerging practitioners and contribute to curriculum development. In doing so, they help shape the future threads of the ecology and ensure the field continues to grow with integrity.
Another aspect of the mycelial network is working towards creating partnerships between Art Therapy organisations, healthcare providers and schools, working behind the scenes to advocate for our field and ensure it remains an sought after and vital component in larger systems.
Rhizomic Musings: A Reflection:
A thought piece on rhizomic thinking in artmaking and healing can be found HERE. The reflection explores emergence and connection at a practice level, but can also mirror how relationships and networks can form across the Arts Therapy field.
Sustainability and limits
Much of the work in this area may go unnoticed, a little like the mycelial networks we often dont see under our feet- but it is a very important terrain. To work sustainably within the Mycelial Network, you may need clear relational boundaries and shared responsibility to avoid overextension. Without these, there is a risk of emotional fatigue or invisible labour that may go unnoticed. This terrain can be tough- everyone likes a bit of support and acknowledgement, right?
In context to the wider ecology
By strengthening connections between practitioners, communities and organisations, this terrain helps sustain the conditions that allow other terrains and forms of practice to flourish. Ultimately, this terrain supports continued growth and evolution of the broader Arts Therapy field.
Species found in the Mycelial Network
Although practitioners may move and migrate across multiple terrains in the Arts Therapy Ecology Map, the following species are often at home within the Mycelial Network:
Mycelial Weavers
Myclieal weavers work behind the scenes to build the infrastructure that supports the field. They help support and resource the wider ecology by serving as the organisational element behind conferences, PDs, and resource-sharing platforms. They may even sit in committee groups for membership bodies, advocating for the field, fostering community support networks and creating pathways for cross sector partnerships.
Bridge Builders
They help link Arts Therapy practitioners and organisations with other sectors such as health, education, or community services, and may also connect training institutions with the wider field. They also assist in coordinating joint initiatives or partnerships..
Pathfinders
These practitioners notice emerging needs or gaps within the field. They enjoy identifying new directions, initiatives and opportunities for connection within the Arts Therapy community as it continues to evolve. They may also be involved in finding students placements.
Want to Explore More?
Lookout: The Bog of Realities
Have a bit of a giggle but don’t get stuck - the realities of practice can get a bit boggy…
Curious about other species?
Explore the different species found across the Ecology Map
Practitioner Portraits
Reflective portraits of practice across the wider ecology
