Annonymous, 2013
What is Art Therapy?
Art therapy is a form of psychotherapy. It is a way of working with a trained professional to explore and make sense of difficult feelings, behaviours and life experiences. Art therapy does not rely on talking. It uses images, objects, and the art making process to visually communicate emotions and troubles which are sometimes difficult to make sense of or talk about. Having something external to look at jointly can help to explore feelings with the support of an art therapist, who can offer alternative ways of thinking and looking at things. Art therapy sessions can also be effective online.
'I feel that art therapy has made me a much more happier person and it has also given me a more positive outlook on living life with a disability compared to how I felt things looked when we first met. Thanks again.'
Anonymous adult client
‘The sessions have been good. It’s helped me realise things about myself that I didn’t know before. I find it hard to accept things I don’t know because my brain wants to make sense of things. Art Therapy has helped me visualise things to help let go.’
Anonymous young person
Do I need to be good at art?
You don't need to be 'good at art' to benefit from art therapy. There is no right or wrong way.
The focus of art therapy is not on the quality of the artwork, but on the creative process. I will help you find your own ways of expressing yourself creatively, which is different for everyone and may not use traditional art materials at all. Art therapists are not there to judge you or the art you make, but to think with you about the images and process and any feelings you may have around it. I provide a range of different materials, and not just art materials, but found objects and other images too.
Where will sessions take place?
I hold in person sessions at two therapy spaces in Rawdon and in Horsforth in Leeds. I ensure the environment is safe, quite, private and comfortable. Your comfort is key!
I also offer online art therapy sessions. I work flexibly with clients to find ways of engaging together in a creative process, whether it's using images as a way of checking in, or making art online, or bringing something visual to reflect on in the space together. My online clients are often surprised at how powerful online art therapy sessions can be.
How long are sessions?
Sessions are 50 minutes.
The first initial session is to see if we want to work together and for you to decide if I am the right person for you. I'll explain a little about how I work and then you can explain what bought you to therapy.
The amount of sessions you have is up to you. I ask that you plan for at least sessions before ending your therapy to allow time to achieve a positive and thoughtful ending, which is an important part of the therapeutic process.
Costs
50 minute Art Psychotherapy sessions are £55. A wide range of quality art materials are provided during sessions.
50 minute Supervision sessions are £55.
I can offer a discount for those on low income or who are able to book a block of sessions.
Art Psychotherapy is completely confidential within the perimeters of safeguarding.
You can contact me to arrange an initial consultation where we can think about whether art therapy feels like the right option for you.