Creative Arts Therapy

Creative Arts Therapy Programme

Our Creative Arts Therapy programme offers a safe, supportive, and trauma-informed space where creativity becomes a pathway to healing. Guided by a qualified Creative Arts Therapist, participants use creative processes such as painting, drawing, movement, sculpture, writing, drama, and music to explore emotions, process experiences, and develop new ways of understanding themselves.

Creative Arts Therapy is an evidence-based psychotherapeutic approach that recognises creativity as a powerful form of expression. It can be particularly helpful when thoughts and feelings are difficult to put into words, providing opportunities for non-verbal processing, self-discovery, empowerment, and meaningful connection with others.

Using a person-centred and strengths-based approach, sessions are tailored to meet each participant’s individual needs, supporting emotional wellbeing, resilience, and personal growth within a safe and welcoming environment.

Creative Arts Therapy Programme Goals

  • Emotional Expression: Support participants to safely explore and express thoughts, feelings, and experiences through creative processes when words alone may not feel enough.
  • Trauma Processing: Provide evidence-based creative approaches that help participants gently process difficult experiences in a safe, supportive, and trauma-informed environment.
  • Self-Discovery and Empowerment: Encourage self-awareness, confidence, and personal growth by exploring strengths, identity, and creativity in meaningful ways.
  • Resilience and Coping Skills: Develop practical coping strategies through creative expression, helping participants strengthen emotional resilience and navigate life’s challenges.
  • Connection and Wellbeing: Foster a sense of belonging, community, and emotional wellbeing through shared creative experiences and supportive therapeutic relationships.

Keen to learn more?

Our creative arts therapy counsellor

Joana Simmons

 

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Joana Simmons, Master of Creative Arts Therapy student, Whitecliffe College.

I am an empathetic, multi-faceted individual with experience across mental health, fitness, educational, and arts settings.

I am committed to community mental health work and believe in the power of creativity to support healing and transformation.

 

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need to be artistic to benefit from Creative Arts Therapy?

Not at all. Creative Arts Therapy is about the therapeutic process rather than creating artwork. No artistic experience or creative ability is needed, your therapist will guide you through activities that are tailored to your comfort level and goals.

What creative activities are used in therapy?

Depending on your needs and preferences, sessions may include painting, drawing, collage, sculpture, writing, movement, drama, music, or other forms of creative expression. Every activity is chosen to support your therapeutic goals.

Who can benefit from Creative Arts Therapy?

Creative Arts Therapy can support, young people, adults, couples, and families experiencing trauma, anxiety, depression, grief, stress, life transitions, or other emotional and mental health challenges.

Is Creative Arts Therapy suitable for trauma recovery?

Yes. Creative Arts Therapy is widely recognised as an effective trauma-informed therapeutic approach. It offers a safe way to explore and process difficult experiences, particularly when verbal expression feels challenging, while supporting emotional regulation, resilience, and healing.

Referrals

We welcome referrals from professionals in health and social services. 

We are happy to collaborate with you on care with your client’s consent.

To make a direct referral, please gain your client’s consent,
then submit a referral below.

Alternatively, if you would like to find out more about us first,
you can submit an enquiry.