About Art Therapy

Art Therapy is an evidence-based psychological treatment that uses art-making as the main form of expression in the sessions.

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Sometimes it can be hard to talk about things that we – or the people we care for – are struggling with. Art Therapy provides a safe space to explore one’s thoughts, feelings and experiences in therapy, without having to find the ‘right’ words.

A person does not need to be good at art to use Art Therapy, as long as they are open to using art materials to express themselves. Although sessions may be enjoyable, it will not be an art class, nor will one’s artwork be interpreted or diagnosed.

Instead, the aim is for the person and the trained psychotherapist to work together, using both the artworks created and their discussions in therapy, to explore what is happening for the person.

Art Therapists hold a postgraduate Master’s certification in this field, and also often have a background in visual arts or working with vulnerable people. This gives them extensive training in the use of both psychotherapy, and visual language in the therapy room.

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The goal of Art Therapy is to provide a safe space to explore one’s issues or struggles using a range of art materials, such as (but not limited to) paint, collage or clay.

The Art Therapy sessions can be adjusted to meet different individual’s needs and goals. Do speak with your Art Therapist about what sort of difficulties you, or your loved one, may want support with.

Some examples of how it can help are:

• Reflecting on the past or difficult memories that are hard to talk about
• Creating images that help one talk more about their feelings
• Making greater sense of one’s world or emotional conflicts
• Fostering self-awareness and personal growth
• Aiding developmental growth (such as fine motor skills)

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Art therapy is not “just for children”! It can be used with a wide range of ages, and conditions, as long as the person is open to using art materials to express themselves. No previous experience or skill in art making is required.

It can be especially useful for people who find it difficult to talk about what they are thinking, feeling or experiencing currently, and may find it easier to work visually.

Art therapists commonly work with children, young people, adults and the elderly in a variety of settings, such as schools, prisons, hospices, and hospitals. These clients may have a wide range of difficulties, disabilities or diagnoses, including emotional, behavioural or mental health problems, learning or physical disabilities, life-limiting conditions, neurological conditions and physical illnesses.

Remember, you don’t need to be considered ‘unwell’ by others to see an art therapist! Everyday people from all walks of life can benefit from journeying alongside a therapist.

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• Introductory Session

  Schedule an initial session with the therapist to view the space, ask any questions you might have and try some art therapy.

• Assessment Sessions

  These first few art therapy sessions are usually used to explore what goals or issues you may have for your art therapy sessions, or to get a further sense if art therapy is a suitable fit for you

• Art Therapy Sessions

  Both you and your therapist will journey together to explore the issues you may bring to the sessions. The total number of sessions you’d like can be discussed with you, and discounts are typically available for booking multiple sessions at one go.

• Regular Review & Evaluation

  If you’d like, we can review your journey at regular intervals arranged with you.