What is Art Psychotherapy?
An Art Psychotherapist is specifically trained in facilitating the use of art materials as a form of emotional expression within psychotherapy. The artmaking is used to express, understand and resolve emotional difficulties. It is based on psychoanalytical theory and is a 3-way process focusing on the art materials and the relationship between therapist and client. Art Psychotherapy can enhance self-understanding and tackle deeply rooted psychological problems and past traumas. It’s often effective for people who may not engage well with talking therapies, for those with high anxiety and likely to find the therapy situation too intense or for individuals who may generally feel emotionally ‘stuck’.
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I work in a person-centred, and largely a non-directive way, meaning that I respond to what each client brings to the session and find a style and pace that suits each individual client.
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Art Psychotherapists are registered with the Health and Care Professions Council (HCPC) and the British Association of Art Therapists (BAAT).​
Who can benefit from Art Psychotherapy?
​Art Psychotherapy can be used to treat most emotional/psychological issues. I am particularly experienced in the following areas.
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Early childhood trauma (including abuse and neglect) and attachment difficulties. Art psychotherapy is often successful in helping very traumatised or dysregulated children who may not have the capacity to engage with other forms of therapy.
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Neurodiversity in all forms and the consequential struggles within school settings, relationships, mental health or on adult life. I also often collaborate with parents of neurodiverse children who may need support and guidance on understanding and managing their children.
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I am particularly experienced in working with eating disorders, depression and bereavement in all ages.
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I have extensive experience of working with school related issues such as school avoidance, anxiety, low self-esteem, bullying and the impact of academic and peer pressure on mental health.
What happens in an Art Psychotherapy session?
The balance between art making and talking in the sessions is different for everyone. Some sessions might be all about making art, other sessions might involve talking only. I work in a person-centred way so am guided by what feels right for each individual client. The client chooses what materials they feel most comfortable using. I may sit quietly, paying attention whist the client uses the art materials, or I may make art alongside the client depending on what feels better for each client. Usually, at the end of each session, we spend time reflecting on the images and work together in understanding what they might express.
