Psychotherapy, also known as talk therapy, aims to provide long-term relief by helping individuals gain a deep understanding of their thoughts, feelings, and behaviours. The goal is to address underlying issues and create lasting change. Through therapy, people can explore their experiences in a safe, confidential space, with the support of a trained professional.
There are many different approaches to psychotherapy, each with its own techniques and goals. The most common of these is Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), which focuses on identifying and changing negative patterns of thought and behaviour. However, talk therapy has limitations, as it can be difficult to put our complex emotions and experiences into words.
What is Psychotherapy?
What is Art Therapy?
Art therapy is a unique form of psychotherapy that uses creative expression to support mental health and wellbeing. It’s not about being an artist or having artistic skills – it’s about using creativity to process emotions, explore challenges, and make sense of life’s complexities.
At its core, art therapy focuses on the relationship between the therapist and client, while also integrating modern understandings of mental health. This approach places great emphasis on the client's lived experience, helping them find meaning and understanding through their creative expression.
Art therapy can be incredibly helpful when words alone feel inadequate. It allows clients to express themselves in ways that are often difficult to articulate through traditional talk therapy. The creative process can provide insight, help with stress reduction, and support emotional expression – all while creating a space for healing and growth.
How does Art Therapy Work?
The beauty of art therapy is its flexibility. Some clients may prefer to talk throughout their session, while others may choose to engage in creative activities, like drawing or painting, to process their emotions. Both elements are integrated into each session, allowing for a well-rounded therapeutic experience.
Art therapy can be particularly useful for those who find it challenging to talk about their emotions or past experiences. The act of creating art provides a natural outlet for these emotions, making it easier to express difficult or painful memories. It can also help to externalise thoughts and feelings, providing clarity and relief.
The approach works in many different ways:
Some clients choose to work on their creativity outside of the therapy session, using art-making as a personal tool for reflection at home.
Others may prefer to just talk, while the therapist may engage in their own creative process, responding to what is shared and helping to externalise complex emotions.
Art therapy allows unconscious material to emerge and become a conscious part of the therapy process, providing new insights and pathways for healing.
Benefits of Art Therapy
Stress Reduction
The creative process is inherently calming, making it easier to relax and open up during therapy.
Emotional Expression
Art provides a non-verbal outlet for emotions that may be hard to express through words.
Exploring Different Experiences
Art-making can help externalise and make sense of experiences that are challenging or traumatic.
Enhanced self-awareness
The act of creating art can lead to new insights, helping clients better understand themselves and their experiences.
Art therapy is a proven, effective method for improving mental health and wellbeing, with extensive research supporting its benefits for stress reduction, emotional expression, and trauma recovery.
Do you need to be an Artist?
No artistic experience is necessary to benefit from art therapy. You don’t need to be “arty” or have any specific art skills – the focus is on using creativity as a tool for self-expression and healing, not on creating “perfect” art.
Art therapy provides a space where creativity becomes a powerful means of emotional support, helping people express themselves, work through challenges, and heal in a way that feels right for them.
Get in Touch
Whether you're interested in therapy sessions, art workshops, or have questions about my approach, I'd love to hear from you.