How do I work? We work together.

Building a trusting, safe, collaborative therapeutic relationship is my priority. The initial assessment is to see if art therapy is what you want, and if I am the right therapist for you. We will explore various materials, and engage in creativity as we talk about what you want from art therapy. I often create alongside people, if appropriate, to encourage ease and creativity. There is no right or wrong way of working and you don't have to be good at art.  

Trees Collage and crayon on paper.

Art therapy approach 

During the assessment I listen to your story, and I may gently ask you questions about your early life experiences (only if this is comfortable for you), to gain a developmental picture and how you have learned to relate to yourself, the people around you and your environment. This is done at your pace. You may chose to tell me your story in your art making, and this is what art therapy is all about. 
I offer Guided Drawing which is a sensorimotor intervention aimed at building inner resources and processing trauma. It also enables people to identify areas in their body that store difficult life experiences, to help process those events. Guided Drawing is an intervention that can be used in groups. 

Found objects

Research based practice

My practice is evidence-based, rooted in research and I engage in regular Continuing Practice Development as part of my HCPC registration. I also have monthly clinical supervision which ensures my safe clinical practice.