I am HCPC registered Art Therapist, from the University of Chester. I have a background in children’s illustration and community art workshops.
I have over a decade of experience working in various care roles, systems and settings. I have worked across all ages, from babies and toddlers up to the elderly. I am passionate about working with people and providing safe and nurturing therapeutic care, using art as a non-verbal means of communication.
My first and most important aspect to my work is to provide safe and nurturing spaces. My aims are to build a sense of safety (internally and externally), community, form a foundation for healing, improve confidence, self-worth and self-fulfilment in life.
I love to learn and incorporate new ideas and ways of working in my practice. I practice using a trauma-informed approach and believe the mind-body connection and nature is hugely important for recovery, mental health, and wellbeing. My therapeutic style also incorporates other approaches such as; CBT, meditation, mindfulness, grounding, breathwork, music and nature and eco-therapy (through materials or working outdoors) in my work.
My passion in art therapy is providing psychodynamic therapeutic support groups.
I have designed a group workshop format that can be tailored to suit the needs of your charity, organisation or clientele.
I am also able to work with individual clients within organisations.
I have worked with and specialised in the areas of;
Alcohol and Substance misuse and addiction,
Domestic Violence,
Sexual abuse,
Trauma,
Anxiety disorders,
Grief and bereavement.
I have also worked with neurodiverse clients and clients in the LGBTQ community.
My thesis looked at art therapy for a range of grief and bereavement needs; including neo and postnatal loss, children, adults, dementia, elderly, family support, ostomates.
You can find me outside swimming, climbing or on my bike. If i’m not outside, you’ll usually find me huddled in my studio, either painting, with a crochet hook or snuggled up with a cup of tea and a good book.
Other qualifications include;
MA, Art Psychotherapy, Chester University. Distinction.
B.A (hons) Illustration, Arts University Bournemouth. Upper Second.
Level 3 Diploma; Children and Young People.
Level 3 Diploma; Children's Care, Play, Learning and development.
HCPC registration number: AS018535