What is Art Therapy?

Art Therapy is a form of psychotherapy that uses creativity to help people express and explore their thoughts, feelings and experiences, either as an alternative to, or alongside words. This approach can be particularly helpful when words feel difficult, overwhelming or hard to find.

Art Therapy can help to reduce distress and support social and mental wellbeing. It can also encourage the development of insight, self-compassion and a greater sense of agency and self-worth.

Sessions are suitable for people of all ages and for individuals with a wide range of difficulties, disabilities or diagnoses. It is not an art lesson, and while sessions can be enjoyable, no previous experience or artistic skill is required.

Nest artwork made with clay

Children & Young People

Art Therapy sessions offer a calm and safe space where children can express themselves through art and play, without pressure to talk or explain how they are feeling. Many children and young people find it difficult to put their emotions into words, especially when they're very young, feeling overwhelmed, anxious or confused. Art Therapy allows them to explore their thoughts and feelings in a creative, playful and age-appropriate way. It can support emotional regulation, build confidence and encourage healthy social and emotional development.

I have many years of experience working with children and young people aged 3 - 18. My approach is child-led and moves at a pace that feels comfortable for your child. Building trust and a sense of safety is central to the work, and I understand that some children may initially feel nervous, unsure or reluctant. I aim to create a warm, supportive space where children feel accepted, able to express themselves freely and understood.

If you're wondering whether Art Therapy could help your child or young person, please feel free to get in touch for an initial conversation.

Dolls in a sand pit for play

Schools

I have many years of experience working within educational settings, including nursery, primary, secondary and SEN schools. I work with children and young people with a wide range of emotional, behavioural and developmental needs including neurodiversity and learning disabilities.

Art Therapy offers pupils a safe, creative, confidential space within the school day. Through art making and play, children and young people are supported to explore and make sense of their thoughts, feelings and experiences in an age-appropriate way, which does not rely on words alone. This can be particularly helpful for children and young people who find it hard to talk or who feel nervous or anxious about engaging in therapy.

I offer both individual and group Art Therapy sessions and work collaboratively with school staff, parents and carers to ensure the therapeutic thinking and support is joined up, ensuring the best outcomes for the child.

School room with art materials

How Art Therapy helps schools

  • Supporting communication and emotional expression
  • Helping pupils develop emotional regulation and coping skills
  • Building self-esteem, confidence and resilience
  • Reducing emotional distress and challenging behaviour
  • Improving engagement with learning and peer relations

If you would like to explore how Art Therapy could support pupils in your school, please get in touch.

Supervision

I offer clinical supervision to both trainee and qualified Art Therapists, providing a safe, containing and reflective space to think deeply about the clients you work with. My aim is to support your learning, ethical practice, develop your confidence in clinical decision-making, while also offering space to reflect on the emotional impact of the work you do.

I hope to develop a collaborative supervisory relationship in which you feel supported and able to reflect honestly on your practice. Supervision sessions can be offered either in person or online.

If you would like to explore whether my approach to supervision would be a good fit for you, please feel free to get in touch to arrange an initial conversation.