CREATIVE (ART) THERAPY

Are you're curious about Creative Therapies or unsure if it is something you would like to try or may benefit from?

The information below explains what it is, who I am, how I practice and what to expect from a session :)

WHAT IT IS

Creative (Art) Therapy is a therapeutic modality that support us in the challenges with psychological, emotional, and physical well-being. It is a gentle client-led practice that explores, externalises and empowers the client in a broad range of issues such as depression, anxiety, menopause, emotional regulation, chronic illness, loss of identity, grief, trauma, ADHD, Autism and terminal conditions.

It is a common misunderstanding that you need art skills, which is understandable given the name. For this reason I prefer to use the label ‘creative therapy’ as opposed to “Art Therapy” because it’s not about making a piece of art, it is about mindfully creating something or visually expressing a response to how we are feeling. The concept may seem a little different to other therapies but it is highly supported, well researched, and especially effective for those who find it hard to put their feelings into words.

WHO I AM

I have studied the Arts in both UK and Australia and worked in commercial design most my life. I began my journey as a working artist and ceramicist a few years ago, then gained formal training in the field of Art Therapy and Counselling.

Over the past two years I have worked with groups experiencing trauma, grief, natural disasters, acute illness, aged life and dementia, as well as those who need ongoing support in their emotional health or assistance with specific challenges. Through experience, I have found Art Therapy a great way for people to explore, acknowledge, integrate and nurture their ‘true self’. This connection strengthens and builds resilience, acceptance, strength and hope.

HOW I PRACTICE

My approach to creativity therapy is the transpersonal, person-centred approach in which the I, the facilitator(or therapist) and you, (the client) work together in an authentic and collaborative way using creativity as the tool to express and channel thoughts, feelings and emotions.

The sessions can be on-line or person to person, in the studio.

WHAT TO EXPECT

The session usually begins with an informal chat about the current challenges faced then we settle into a mindful exercise e.g. a breathing, meditation or somatic process to bring ourselves into a connected and present headspace.

We then begin a guided activity with gentle exploration and reflection around the feelings and thoughts that come to the surface from the creative process in particular what details in the expression the client’s notices, responds to or resonates with. This externalising of emotions and thoughts intuitively assists us to break down conflicts, build better connections and integrate them internally.

The purpose of sessions are to realise self-actualisation, and the resources we have within to strengthen our belief systems around who we are and what we need to accept, heal, grow to lead a balanced happy life.

If you would like to know more or talk with me about arranging a session, please call me for a chat on 0404 407 535 or use the contact form.

If you would like to join our monthly art therapy group which will start in March, please click here for more details

Creative Therapy supports:

  • Daily well-being

  • Connection to self

  • Self-discovery, actualisation and determination

  • Roads to recovery (Managing the next stage of life following grief, illness, addiction, trauma)

  • Regulating emotions

  • Building resilience and self-esteem

  • Letting go and changing behaviour patterns that do it serve us. (resentment, fear, anxiety, grief, anger, low self esteem)

  • Building strengths and resilience to make positive changes

  • Making big decisions / Moving forward when you are stuck

  • Questioning and not knowing (who you are and what you want)

  • Relationship building and healing