Art Psychotherapy

When talking is difficult, or you just don't have the words to express painful or taboo feelings, then ART THERAPY could help you express them through images and make sense of it all within a safe therapeutic relationship How does it work? Art Therapy involves a three-way relationship between you, your artwork and the therapist. The artwork is a form of communication; it can be used as a barrier or a bridge; it can be a container or a dump for difficult thoughts and feelings; it can embody and make visible unconscious feelings and ideas. The therapist will not magically interpret your images but work with you to make sense of them. The process of making art involves the whole person: body, mind, feelings and spirit, thus connecting every level of our being and enabling integration.

What happens in a session?

Art Therapy sessions are 50 minutes and usually at the same place at the same time each week.

You will be invited to use the art materials to make whatever you wish and, after the initial meeting, you can talk as much or as little as you like.

If you feel stuck or anxious about getting started the therapist will help you with themes and technical help.

The therapist will usually look after artwork between sessions, until the end of therapy when you can choose what to do with it.

Who might benefit?

You do not have to be 'good at art' to benefit, just willing to play with the materials.

If you find yourself going round in circles when you talk about your problems then working with images can help you change that and find new words.

People have found Art Therapy helpful for many problems including:

Art Therapy Training

Art Therapy training is a two year full time post graduate diploma or masters available at five universities in the U.K. (see www.baat.org). Dylis trained at the University of Sheffield.

Training includes psychological theory (Art Therapy, Psychodynamic, Jungian and others); clinical practice of two days a week for eighteen months; participation in Art Therapy practice groups and engagement with personal 1:1 therapy for at least two years.

If you would like to discuss it first:
ring Dylis on 07963866516
or email arttherapy.dylis@yahoo.co.uk
Cost is £40-£35 per session (sliding scale)

Professional Accountability

Art Therapist/Art Psychotherapist are professional titles (like Nurse or M.D.) and can only be used by graduates of BAAT (British Association of Art Therapists) approved courses.

On graduation Art Therapists must be registered with the Health Professions Council (HPC) each year, giving evidence of continuing professional development.