How I work
Non-pathologising
I am most interested in the evolving words and ways you decide to describe and understand yourself, rather than only through a restrictive lens of any mental health diagnosis you may have attracted.
LGBTQIA+ affirmative
In a world where our safety and rights are always under threat, I am explicit about my affirmative stance on working with clients from gender and sexuality diverse groups.
I am also kink and non-monogamy knowledgeable and safe for sex workers.
Trauma-informed
I strive use the principles of trauma-informed practice to guide my offerings. They are safety, trust, choice, collaboration, empowerment and cultural consideration.
Therapeutic Modalities
I describe myself as an integrative therapist. What this means in reality is that I am trained in, and use, many different therapeutic approaches. I think of these different ways of working like a tool belt. No two clients need exactly the same tools, so I enjoy being able to offer people different ways of looking at the circumstances which have brought them to therapy. The theoretic modalities I most commonly use tools from are contemporary psychodynamic practice (inc. attachment theory), person-centered therapy, transactional analysis, gestalt, positive psychology and mentalisation based therapy (MBT). My continued professional development focuses on anti-oppressive practice, with an explicit commitment to being anti-racist.
Professional Standards
I am insured for the work I do and registered with the following relevant organisations.
Art Psychotherapist is a protected title. I work to maintain the standards of proficiency, conduct and ethics for Arts Therapists.
The Health and Care Professions Council
AS11085
As a member, I strive to uphold the BAAT code of ethics which sets out the fundamental principles, standards and guidelines for good practice.
British Association of Art Therapists
Full member
I am compliant with UK general data protection regulations (GDPR) and take the protection of all client’s data seriously.
Information Commissioner’s Office
Registered
Further questions?
Art Therapy with Alison 