My way of working

Arts Therapy is a form of Psychotherapy. My practice and therapeutic style follows in the humanistic tradition of person-centred therapy which honours you as the ‘expert’ in your own experiences. My intention as an Arts Therapist/Counsellor is to create a space where aspects of your life and emotional experiencing can be attended to gently and in a supportive way. This is often, but not always, through a creative lens and metaphor. Generally our time together starts with traditional ‘talk’ therapy until confidence and trust are established. I will encourage and work alongside you to find and explore ways to express yourself at your own pace. Authentic and supportive relationship is at the core of my work, alongside a belief that approaching ourselves and others with curiosity and compassion leads to deeper understanding and growth.

Mamaku Arts Therapy and Counselling

Mamaku Arts Therapy and counselling is dedicated to providing a respectful, compassionate and confidential arts therapy/counselling service that empowers children, adolescents, individual adults, couples and families to

• Develop creative solutions to the challenges they face

• Enhance personal effectiveness and resilience

• Restore and sustain more satisfying relationships

• Achieve well-being and balance in the mental, emotional, social, spiritual and physical aspects of their lives.

Arts Therapy practise is based on understanding of human development and draws on a range of psychological theories and approaches. Arts therapists are trained in providing counselling and verbal therapy alongside arts therapy.

There is an emphasis on drawing on a balance of ‘top down’ and ‘bottom-up’ therapeutic approaches. A creative element is often, but not always, included in sessions. Arts therapist may use visual art making (painting, drawing, collage, sculpture, printmaking) writing, poetry, dance/movement, music and drama as part of their therapeutic practise. The emphasis is on the therapeutic process and artistic skill is not required.

Some of the therapeutic approaches that Arts Therapists may draw on are ACT, CBT, DBT, mindfulness-based, gestalt, person-centred, existential, somatic/ polyvagal/ Hakomi, positive psychology, narrative therapy, internal and external family systems, solution focussed, sand and play therapy, strengths based and attachment theory.

Why is the Mamaku significant?

The Mamaku is the New Zealand ‘black fern’. The new fronds of the Mamaku fern form a koru shape and are seen to symbolise new life and new beginnings, mirroring the plant’s capacity to regenerate and renew life. In its natural environment the Mamaku fern is key in regenerating and replenishing the native bush, returning essential nutrients to the soil, and laying foundations for new growth. The umbrella like canopy helps retain precious moisture and provides protection for the emerging new growth below.