“Everyone is unique and deserves support that is right for them”

Using a person-centred, flexible approach I aim to support individuals in finding their own resources through the creative and therapeutic process, however that might look for them.

My Background

I have over five years of experience as an Art Psychotherapist, working across a range of settings including schools and colleges, children’s residential care, private therapy services, and the NHS Adult Gender Identity Service. Before training, I spent ten years working in education in supportive roles, which continues to shape how I work—taking time to build trust in the relationship, recognising each individuals uniqueness and using creativity to break down barriers. Alongside this I pursued a Masters in Psychology, and conducted research into how creative and practical skills education impacted students self-perceptions and ability to regulate their emotions.

Being neurodivergent myself, I understand how important it is for therapy to feel flexible, personalised, and free from pressure to fit a certain way of thinking or expressing. Creativity can help with this —not just as a process of making a ‘finished’ artwork, but as a way of making sense of things, calming the nervous system, reconnecting with the body, and gently exploring what’s going on beneath the surface. This might involve art materials, creative writing/jounalling, or simply approaching things in a more imaganitive, open and curious way. I have found that Art Therapy can breakdown barriers, as well as our preconceptions, of what it means and feels like to be creative. See more about this on ‘What is Art Therapy‘ page.

 “Create a clearing in the dense forest of your life”

Poem: Clearing by Martha Postlethwait

My Approach

I believe that the relationship fostered between therapist and client creates the foundation of therapy. Developing trust can be difficult, so I ensure that all my clients know we will take things at their pace. Feeling a sense of trust is vital for us to feel safe enough to share and explore difficult feelings and experiences. This is part of what is called a ‘person-centred’ approach.

Also, part of a person-centred approach is working flexibly and collaboratively to adapt the therapy to your specific needs, as I get to know you. This means I might draw upon and integrate different therapeutic styles, approaches and ideas to best meet your needs at any given time, rather than a ‘one-size fits all’ approach. It means working closely with you to figure out what might be most helpful as we go a long. This is also what is called an ‘integrative’ approach to therapy.

“I aim to foster a creative and compassionate space where you can begin making sense of your experience.”

My therapy practice has also developed alongside, and integrated with, my personal practice of mindfulness. The core principles of compassion and kindness, paying attention to the present moment and (re-) connecting with our bodies are threaded through how I work.

CPD Courses & Training