Unofficial Art Therapy with Dr Liz and Coombesy
Coombesy is the medical professional, Dr Liz writes descriptions not prescriptions. We talk about different types of art from across eras and genres, and how these have helped us in good times and bad. Don’t mistake this for actual medical advice, but do come along for the jokes, the name drops and the delightfully daggy love of music videos. Based in Australia, we are lovers of pop, sport, theatre, comedy, magic, cabaret and more. Art IS therapy and a vital part of being alive.
Episodes

Jul 29, 2026
Jul 29, 2026
55 min
It's been a while- we've missed you. In this ep we talk about the excellent Mario Queen of the Circus, the incredible Reuben Kaye and his first (of hopefully many) Adelaide Cabaret Festivals; and hugs and kisses. We appreciate you xx

May 10, 2026
May 10, 2026
35 min
This episode has keep you waiting - sorry about that! While life has taken over Coombesy has keep on - importantly planning to come out of comedy retirement for a new show Tumour Has It for Melbourne later in the year. In the ep we're a bit bumbly about the details (sorry about that) but as always Coombesy will keep you updated in the socials. We appreciate you, and do reach out if you need to - you're worth every second xx

Jan 13, 2026
Jan 13, 2026
36 min
Welcome to 2026! This episode starts with a bit of sadness (talking about the loss of lovely Joan), and with that we also move to what unofficial Art Therapy can do to help us get by. There's lots across forms like theatre, music, and tennis - hang in to see if Coombesy's current ailment is actually due to some tennis training! As always, we appreciate you, take good care and if you need help please ask. You're worth it.

Dec 16, 2025
Dec 16, 2025
45 min
Somehow we've made it to the end of 2025 (well almost, close enough). As things wind down we review the best of Art Therapy this year, while also acknowledging that for so many this has been a very hard one. Our love is with those we have lost and those who have lost loved ones, and our solidarity is with those who have been targeted. As always, please reach out for help if you need it - you are worthy of help, love and support. We thank you again for your time, energy and companionship. Cooombesy and Dr Liz xx

Oct 21, 2025
Oct 21, 2025
40 min
Another ep so quickly? Why not? In this one we natter about what makes a joke good or not - and often it's not just the content but who's listening and what power they have. We also talk our faves, and have a few recommendations (not always safe for work though - be warned). As always, we appreciate you, and please reach out if you need xx

Oct 19, 2025
Oct 19, 2025
29 min
Sorry it's been a while - it's been a bit of a time! Since we've been off the mic there's been highs and lows, but importantly good (unofficial) art therapy and excellent support from friends. This one is a bit shorter than usual but hopefully still with the right vibe - including a recommendation to get into Pub Choir and the wonderful work of Astrid Jorgensen in whatever way your location and budget will allow. As always, we are well meaning rather than well qualified, so if you need something please do reach out. We appreciate you xx

Jul 29, 2025
Jul 29, 2025
43 min
This episode Coombesy talks a lot about plans. Plans for when he's here, for when he's not, and the plans he made for a mate who had a theatre experience like no other! Please excuse a bit of noise on the feed (we were up against it) - and please hold dear those you love. We appreciate you, and ask if you need anything. With love, AMY! xx

Jun 4, 2025
Jun 4, 2025
58 min
This week Coombesy reports back on his epic Mega Dose of musical theatre and excellent humans - so joyful to hear his take as well as the spring in his step. Towards the end we do talk about some of the overarching themes, so there is a bit of talk about death if that triggers you or someone you love. As always, there is help available - please reach out. We appreciate you (and especially you, Colleen!)

May 26, 2025
May 26, 2025
47 min
This week Cooombesy talks about megadosing on the art therapy - a little unexpected mini festival he's undertaking that is happening around the time of a big anniversary for him too. We talk musicals, being a critic (or a selector) and of course Beetlejuice, new musicals and a bit of Rueben Kaye for good measure. As always, if you need anything please do reach out. We appreciate you x

Apr 23, 2025
Apr 23, 2025
49 min
This week Coombesy talks about his new exercise work. Guided by heart specialists he's out (or inside) walking and cycling, as well as moving towards more mindful eating. We talk about the highs and lows, the temptation and motivation, all guided by Eddie Perfect's Beetlejuice, Wil Anderson's advice on bodies and a bit random lovely nonsense in between. As always, we appreciate you.

Unofficial Art Therapy
Dr Liz has a PhD in Music, Media and Cultural studies. Coombesy is a retired medico, former nurse and paramedic. We are great mates who use all types of art as therapy, including talking about it. Come for the recommendations, stay for the name dropping and tall stories, and always remember, if you need help, ask. xx



