About me
I am a qualified Art Therapist and School Counsellor with many years of experience supporting children and young people with their emotional wellbeing. I am passionate about helping young people feel understood, supported, and able to express themselves in ways that feel safe and meaningful.
My work combines creative art therapy with evidence-based therapeutic approaches. Through drawing, painting, play, and other creative methods, I help children explore their thoughts and feelings, particularly when they may find it difficult to talk about what they are experiencing.
Alongside my private practice, I work as a Lead College Counsellor and Art Therapist in a college setting and as a Grief Support Worker with a specialist bereavement charity. Much of my work focuses on supporting young people who are experiencing grief, trauma, anxiety, or emotional challenges. I have also developed therapeutic resources and grief journals that are used in schools and support groups to help young people understand and process their feelings.
Over the years I have worked in a range of schools, specialist settings, and mental health services, supporting children with diverse needs including neurodiversity, bereavement, anxiety, and low confidence. I have experience working with children with autism, young people awaiting diagnosis, and LGBTQ+ young people, and I aim to create an inclusive and welcoming space for all.
My approach is trauma-informed, creative, and child-centred. I believe that every young person deserves a safe space where they can explore their feelings, build resilience, and develop confidence in themselves.
I hold an MA in Art Psychotherapy from Goldsmiths, University of London, and continue to undertake regular professional development in areas such as bereavement support, neurodiversity, safeguarding, and therapeutic practice.
I work closely with parents, carers, schools, and other professionals when appropriate to ensure each child receives the support they need.
How can Art Therapy Help?
Art therapy gives children, young people and adults a safe and supportive space to explore their thoughts, feelings, and experiences through creativity. Sometimes it can be difficult for young people to put emotions into words. Using art materials such as drawing, painting, clay, collage, and play-based approaches allows them to express themselves in a natural and non-pressured way.
Through creative exploration, children can begin to understand their feelings, build confidence, and develop healthier ways of coping with challenges. Art therapy focuses on the process of creating rather than the final artwork, meaning there is no need for any artistic skill or experience.
Art therapy may help children and young people who are experiencing:
• Anxiety or worries
• Low mood or emotional overwhelm
• Bereavement or grief
• Friendship or relationship difficulties
• School-related stress
• Low self-esteem or confidence
• Behavioural challenges
• Family changes such as separation or loss
• Difficult or traumatic experiences
Sessions are tailored to each child’s individual needs and pace. Some children may choose to talk about their artwork and feelings, while others may communicate more through the creative process itself.
The aim of art therapy is to help young people feel heard, understood, and supported, while building emotional resilience and a stronger sense of self.