Art Therapy for Adults

WHAT IS ART THERAPY or also called PSYCHOTHERAPY?
Art Therapy is a form of Psychotherapy that uses art media as its primary mode of expression and communication. It happens in the presence of a qualified Art Therapist who provides a safe, confidential and non-judgemental space so clients are able explore difficult thoughts and feelings. Within this context, art is not used as diagnostic tool but as a medium to address emotional issues, which may be confusing and distressing.

It is not a recreational activity or an art lesson, although the sessions can be enjoyable. Clients do not need to have any previous experience or expertise in art. One may want to paint, draw or play with clay. One may wish to explore the materials, pouring paint, ripping paper or pushing chalk pastels against paper. Playing with materials will be beneficial for the client to find non-verbal ways of expressing how you feel.

It focuses on understanding what is going on "underneath" a presenting problem and it helps make links between our unconscious and conscious mind, allowing unknown thoughts and feelings to come to the surface and gently be explored for self-understanding. Understanding these connections can empower us to break habits, let go of unhelpful thoughts and feelings, process difficult experiences and form new ways of living.

Clients may have a wide range of difficulties, disabilities or diagnoses. These include emotional, behavioural or mental health problems, learning or physical disabilities, life-limiting conditions, neurological conditions and physical illnesses. Examples: low self esteem, anxiety, depression, early trauma, panic attacks, low mood, emotional dysregulation, anger management, stress, bereavement and loss, sleep difficulties, CFS (chronic fatigue syndrome), chronic pain, identity issues, attachment difficulties, relationship and social difficulties, adoption/fostered and neurodivergent (ASD/ADD/ADHD).

For more information on Art Therapy please go to The British Association of Art Therapists (BAAT) at https://baat.org/

ONLINE ART THERAPY

I always suggest in person sessions because of the real connection/relationship with the therapist, however, I also provide Art Therapy sessions via ZOOM, which can be equally effective and much needed when clients sometimes don’t have the choice to do it face-to-face. Online sessions can also be an alternative for sessions’ rearrangements so clients can do both when needed. This can be discussed at the assessment meeting.

COSTS
Book your FREE 20 min CALL for initial enquiries.
Call me, Irene Malvezi, at 07715601222 or email at

Before we work together it is advisable to have assessment meeting. If you agree that Art Therapy would be beneficial for you then it would be expected that you come for weekly sessions for at least three months, as continuity is vital for the therapy to be effective.

Assessment: 50 minutes - £50
Individual Sessions: 50 minutes - £70