5 Things I've learnt since qualifying as an Art Therapist

Hi folks,

II celebrating 10 years since I qualified as an Art Therapist! I've worked in various settings, as an Art Therapist, a therapy assistant, an online counsellor and a workshop facilitator during that time. I’ve also moved countries and built my own private Art Therapy practice. So, I thought I'd share with you 5 things I've learnt since qualifying:

1. Art making does not have to be elaborate or take a long to be powerful. The simplest drawings in felt pen of someone's fears or worries can provide perspective, and enable the client to look at them with curiosity.

2. Therapy looks different for everyone. When starting therapy with someone new, I have a process and a framework that I follow, but its vital for me to adapt my approach to meet the unique needs of each person, and meet them where they're at. 

3. The relationship I have with my clients is the most important ingredient in creating healthy change. Trust, playfulness and human-ness are key to developing a relationship that can withstand the ups and downs of growth in therapy. 

4. I need plenty of space between sessions and after work to process the content of sessions. Making art is one of my tools for understanding my own feelings. It gives me a safe place to offload, express and channel emotions, so that I have enough space to help hold other people's. 

5. There are always going to be ebbs and flows when running my own private practice. It can be stressful and isolating. However it is a privilege to do this work. I feel honoured to witness the wonderful and challenging journeys people undertake to love themselves and to live more fulfilling lives. 

🎉 

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