A Safe Space

Art therapy is a form of counselling that uses the creative arts to express your thoughts, feelings and experiences instead of relying on words alone.

Art therapy provides a safe and non-judgmental space for you to freely communicate and explore while gaining a deeper understanding of yourself, others and the world around you.

The creative process can help to improve your self-esteem, reduce stress, manage anxiety, and enhance your mental health and well-being.

The Creative Process

Your art therapist works with you, exploring creative processes that align with your strengths and interests while working towards your therapeutic goals. Creative Art processes used in your session may include:

  • Making images with paint, collage, pastels, pens, pencils, natural materials and craft supplies

  • Air clay forming

  • Story Writting and poetry

  • Voice, sound and body movement

  • Guided grounding and mindfulness

Benefits of an Art Therapist

Treatment Planning

In consultation with the client, I develop a personalised treatment plan tailored to each client’s specific needs and goals. I consider factors such as the client’s age, abilities, interests, and the therapeutic approaches best suited to the clients:

Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT)

Dialectical Behaviour Therapy (DBT)

Psychodynamic Therapies

Interpersonal Therapy

Person Centred Therapy

Stages of Change in Addiction Therapies

Therapeutic Relationship:

I build a therapeutic relationship with my clients, establishing, rapport, and a sense of collaboration. This relationship serves as a foundation for the therapeutic process, facilitating the exploration and resolution of emotional and psychological challenges.

A Collaborative Approach

In a holistic approach to mental health, I seek permission from the client to collaborate with and refer to other professionals involved in the clients care e.g. GP, Social Worker, Psychologist, School Counselor.

Treatment Goals

I work with clients to identify and work towards specific treatment goals. These goals can include emotional regulation, stress reduction, trauma resolution, self-esteem enhancement, personal growth, and increased self-expression.

Art-Based Interventions:

I utilise a wide range of artistic techniques and materials for the client, to express themselves through art, exploring their thoughts, feelings, and experiences. The process of creating art serves as a medium for communication and self-discovery.

Interpretation and Reflection:

I facilitate discussions around the artwork created by clients, helping them explore meaning through metaphor and symbols. I encourage clients to reflect on their creations, promoting self-awareness and insight into their emotions, conflicts, and personal narratives.

Psychoeducation:

Without judgement, I provide informed advice on the physical, emotional and behavioural responses to ones lived experience.

Emotional Support:

I provide a safe and supportive environment where clients can express their emotions, thoughts, and experiences. I offer empathy, active listening, and non-judgmental guidance, fostering trust, trauma resolution, self-esteem enhancement, personal growth, and increased self-expression.

Integration and Closure:

I help clients integrate their insights and experiences gained through art therapy into their daily lives. I assist in developing strategies for managing emotions and challenges outside of therapy sessions.