Because friction is inevitable — but burnout doesn’t have to be.
In the creative industries, conflict comes with the territory. From clashing visions in the studio, to tough feedback, rejection, and high-pressure collaborations, the way we navigate tension can make or break both our work and our wellbeing.
Support Act psychologist Dr Ash King, with coach and counsellor Bree Baker, will guide participants through the art of handling conflict with confidence and compassion.
We’ll explore how to cope with criticism and rejection, how to manage differences of opinion without derailing creative momentum, and how to turn challenging conversations into opportunities for clarity, collaboration, and growth.
Through practical tools and real-world reflections, artists will leave with strategies to protect their mental health, strengthen communication, and keep creativity flowing — even in the heat of disagreement.
*75-minute hybrid workshop (with the option to join in person or online)
Presented by Support Act and Music Victoria
This event is delivered with support from Creative Workplaces and Creative Victoria
It has been a tough couple of years for performing musicians. Income has evaporated, creativity stifled, and performance muscles withered. While many have enthusiastically jumped straight back up on stage, for others the path has been rocky.
‘Return to the Stage’ will create a confidential and non-judgemental space to discuss mental, emotional and behavioural barriers that you may be facing as you prepare to get back on stage. You will learn and practice mental skills that can improve the quality of your performance and your overall wellbeing. Participants will leave with helpful strategies to get back to performing music in a way that is meaningful and purposeful for them.
Return to the Stage will take place at Music Market on Sunday, July 17th from 10am-4pm. Places are strictly limited. To register, email Deborah directly.
Deborah Hart has been a professional orchestral musician since 1985. Since 2015, Deborah has been coaching musicians using an evidence based psychological framework called ACT (Acceptance and Commitment Training). You can read more about Deborah on her website. You can watch this video about her own struggles with performing her best. You can also watch her on SBS insight talking how psychological skills have helped her perform. Deborah holds a current working with children check and Australian Counselling Association registration.