Artistic therapy is a powerful yet gentle way of helping our body, mind and soul

Art therapy can be of benefit for those experiencing stress, addictions, anxiety, depression, or other mental health and emotional challenges.

It is also a wonderful support for carers, parents, and those in helping and health professions.

I am available for private artistic therapy sessions. 

  • Artistic therapy is a powerful yet gentle way of helping our body, mind and soul to tap into its own healthy processes.

    In Artistic Therapy a person is guided by the therapist through specific art exercises. They are supported to engage their own thoughts, feelings and actions to move towards health and wellbeing - towards a state of balance and harmony.

    Different art forms may be used in sessions depending on the needs of the individual. They may include watercolour painting, charcoal, drawing, clay modelling; or even poetry, biography, movement and meditation for example. I often use nature and its plants, animals and rhythms for inspiration in sessions.

  • Not at all . The focus is on the process of creating, not on the outcome. You will be fully guided by me through all activities.

  • Through actively taking part in creating we can

    • express feelings that may be hard to articulate in words

    • experience mindfulness

    • find balance

    • improve self-esteem

    • strengthen our will, and

    • become more self-aware.

    Feelings of helplessness, fear, anxiety, listlessness, or disconnection can be relieved and transformed, and a new interest for life sparked.

  • An initial meeting will be arranged so we can get to know each other, and you will have an opportunity to share your goals and needs. This will help us to come up with a plan together.

    Then, over a number of sessions (usually for 45 minutes once a week) you will be guided through a series of artistic exercises that are nourishing and therapeutic. In each session we will gently observe our artwork together, asking questions about the artwork and the process, to bring awareness.

    This is not the same as talk therapy or counselling - instead we let the art speak, making decisions together about light and dark, shape, and colour for example in a safe, warm and supportive environment. You will learn simple practices you can do at home, and will be supported to establish healthy routines and rhythms in your daily life which can benefit your emotional, mental, spiritual and physical health.

    My wish for you is that you experience a greater sense of wellbeing and that you feel confident to take charge of your own journey.

Please contact me to find out more or to book.

  • “I feel happy and relaxed when I'm doing the art.”

    Participant in Art Wellness programmes in schools

  • Emma’s class is the highlight of our week. Using the creative process to help express emotions. And the therapeutic process to help bring balance in times of turmoil.

    Residents of St Marks Addiction Residential Treatment Centre

  • “I am so pleased about this art. It is good for my confidence”

    Participant in a therapeutic arts group at Women’s Refuge

  • “I feel great when I do the art group because I get to do art that I love. I didn't even know I could paint before I came here.”

    Participant in Art Wellness programmes in schools

  • “I recommend it because it takes out a lot of stress. It just relieves you and you forget about everything else.

    Student of the Hauora Arts Programme at Marlborough Girls College

  • "Emma has the gift of gently guiding people out of their comfort zone; we see quiet people gain confidence, sad people leave with a smile and family members thanking us for providing a safe and welcoming space for their loved one so they can take some time out."