About Creative Art Therapies/Art for Wellbeing:

Creativity is an essential aspect of our identity, serving as a potent avenue for self-discovery. Engaging in creative activities provides a safe ‘play-space,’ which facilitates expression of present day feelings and emotions. In the Art for Wellbeing sessions participants will not be asked to disclose information from their past or invited to look at any deeply challenging themes or subjects. These sessions are distinct from traditional Art Therapy in that they encompass present day, present moment experiencing only. There is no processing of past experiences or ‘talking therapy’ involved. The differentiation between the Art for Wellbeing sessions and Art Therapy is crucial to avoid confusion. Art Therapy is a distinct practice conducted by licensed therapists trained specifically in art as a therapeutic discipline and psychotherapeutic treatment. In the Art for Wellbeing sessions creative expression is engaged in through a broad range of expressive methods; visual arts, movement, sound work and various forms of mark-making to communicate preset day mood, emotions, strengths and identity to encourage stress reduction and boost self-esteem. This inclusive approach ensures that individuals can find their unique mode of expression, which may not strictly adhere to conventional artistic techniques.

“Letting my feelings out onto paper in colours and shapes really helped to find a new perspective to my over flowing thoughts” .

In the Art for Wellbeing sessions, the focus is on fostering new insights and a renewed sense of self through the exploration of gentle themes such as identity, boundaries, and personal strengths. These sessions are integrative and tailored to be client-led, respecting the pace and emotional space of each participant. By employing a variety of mediums and resources, we aim to enhance a personal journey, supporting participants in gaining confidence, clarity, and motivation. No prior art experience is necessary to participate in the practices of these wellbeing sessions.

Timings/course duration and example session layout:

One to one sessions are 60 minutes in length. However, the Creative Art Therapies/Art for Wellbeing groups benefit from a longer session, generally 90 minutes to 2 hours. We begin with an informal check-in for anyone that would like to share, before moving on to do a little bit of either movement and grounding practice in our chairs or a gentle breath-focused exercise before beginning an art exercise. It can be useful for the art groups to have journals for reflections which Aimee, our Creative Arts Facilitator can provide.

The recommended minimum amount of sessions is 6 weeks, therefore all our group programs are structured in this way. The group sessions also include an initial ‘meet and greet’ session so that all participants can orientate to the space, meet one another and ask any questions.

Art For wellbeing sessions are also available online.

Investment:

60 min In-Person Consultation £70 or block book 3 sessions for £180 60 min Online Consultation £50

*subsidised sessions available