What is Art Psychotherapy?
Art psychotherapy is a clinically informed form of psychotherapy that combines creative expression with different ways of reflection (verbal and non-verbal). The practice supports individuals experiencing mental health distress, emotional difficulties, relationship issues (with others and self), and struggles living with neurodivergency, or other diagnosed psychological differences and conditions. Through the therapeutic process of image-making within a safe and confidential relationship, clients are supported to explore thoughts, feelings, and experiences that may be difficult to communicate through words alone. Clinical research validates that trauma- informed Art psychotherapy work helps develop higher capacities for emotional regulation, self-awareness, insight, and resilience, whilst supporting overall psychological wellbeing. No artistic skill or previous experience is required, as the focus is on therapeutic exploration rather than artistic ability.
Who with?
My name is Hayley and I am a self employed Art Psychotherapist, working in Belfast, Ireland. My educational background is in Fine Art, taking my MA degree at Chelsea College of Art, London, U.A.L., and finishing with my MSc in Art Psychotherapy at Ulster University in Belfast. Through exhibitions and integrating into creative communities within Belfast myself, I am emerged in the context of Art here and experience regularly it's influence on the city, it's spaces and everyday people. With over 400 hours of client work experience (1:1 and groups), and through my education and ongoing research, I have discovered the power of Art for acknowledging and bringing to light our deeply personal experiences, which often, words cannot express clearly enough.
I have extensive experience working with vulnerable children and adults, through my Art Therapy work and from also working previously for many different care organisations since I was a teenager. To name a few roles, I have worked; as a support worker for the National Autistic Society, an advocate within a mother and baby rehabilitation unit, and have volunteered as an Art Therapy assistant within a hospice for patients receiving end of life care. With a want to bring my two passions together, the art world and my drive to help others, my decisions have lead me to here, where I can work for myself, with a vision to be of service to others.
My aims are; to help improve well being and mental health issues for whoever desires support, to inspire individuals creative expression and a stronger sense of autonomy, to advocate a building for more resilience and confidence in clients, and also, to guide them into finding new ways to understand and communicate their inner worlds. I strive for my clients to feel seen, respected and empowered in their uniqueness, and to feel more confident integrated into their communities.
