“I could say things with color and shape that I couldn’t say any other way
– things I had no words for…”
Margaret Naumburg
Hello!
I'm Melissa and I am a qualified Art Psychotherapist (MSc) based in the Antrim/Ballymena area. I am registered with the Health and Care Professions Council (HCPC) and a full member of the British Association of Art Therapists (BAAT).
I offer Art Therapy sessions throughout NI to a wide range of organisations including Health and Social Care settings, Schools, Voluntary Agencies, Youth Groups and Community Groups.
I am available for individual and small group art therapy sessions as well as well-being sessions or creative workshops.
Please get in touch if you have any questions or queries!
What is Art Therapy?
Art therapy is the process of making art with the guidance and support of a professional art therapist. It is a form of psychotherapy in which the art is the main mode of communication, giving the client an alternative means of expression. Through art therapy clients are able to explore their inner world, express and interpret their thoughts, feelings and emotions, develop greater self-awareness and gain tools to enable them to better cope with stress and anxiety.
For many clients the art process is simply helpful for soothing and self-regulating.
In my art therapy sessions, I strive to create a warm and confidential environment where clients can feel safe and nurtured. It's a space where the client can freely explore a wide variety of art materials and express their emotions, whether through words or non-verbal means. My approach is centred around the client, taking into account their unique needs and preferences.
I work with clients of all ages, from children to older adults, and my therapeutic style is pluralistic and trauma-informed. Don't worry if you don't have any prior art experience - it's not a requirement at all. Each art therapy session is personalised to suit the client’s individual needs, ensuring they feel comfortable and supported throughout the process.
Art Therapy can provide assistance and support to individuals facing a range of difficulties, disabilities, and conditions. These include emotional and behavioural issues, mental health concerns, learning and physical disabilities, life-limiting and neurological conditions, as well as physical illnesses.
Some issues that can be worked through in Art Therapy include; anxiety, bullying, relationship difficulties (family/peers), identity, self-esteem, pain-based/self-harming behaviours, stress, suicidal thoughts, transitions (primary to post-primary/youth to adult) and traumatic experiences.
Coming from a background in Social Work I have over seven years of experience working with children and young people who have encountered the care system. Therefore, I am able to offer sessions tailored to children and young people who have been adopted or who are currently in out-of-home care (kinship/foster care/residential placements).
