Picking a therapist is as important as the type of therapy you choose. I always encourage potential clients to research other therapists and types of therapy, because we all come with different approaches, backgrounds and specialisms.
Therapeutic Approach & Practice
My practice is based on ‘humanistic’ psychotherapy models, which involves viewing each client as a unique individual and working with the whole person in mind. It also means tailoring the therapy to fit their unique needs in the present moment, rather than expecting the individual to fit the therapy. It is my belief that great therapeutic value can be achieved by promoting a safe, supportive space to explore, and by creating a trusting, warm, therapeutic relationship.
I work extensively with how an individual perceives themselves, and find importance in understanding their experiences from their point of view. This person-centred approach aids people in feeling accepted, and helps them better understand their own feelings and why they think and behave the way they do, so they are able to make lasting, beneficial changes.
By integrating these models of therapy with the development of healthy inner resources, the ultimate aim is to help the client reconnect, grow and heal through the use of creative mediums. Developing the client’s inner values and self-worth can enable a person to trust that together, therapist and client can find the most effective ways for them to heal and move forward in their lives.
What made you decide to become a dramatherapist?
I have always benefitted from drama and theatre. I began Speech and Drama lessons at four years old in order to build confidence and have fun, and worked consistently with the same teacher until I was eighteen. Whilst I loved performing to friends and family, I never wanted to act professionally, I simply took enjoyment from it.
During my teenage years I struggled with my mental health and attending school. It was then I learned first hand how much of an impact supportive, warm and consistent support could make to someone’s life. I knew then that whatever I ended up doing, I wanted to help people. I discovered Dramatherapy in my early twenties, and due to my background and knowledge of how drama benefits mental health, I took immediate (and intense) interest.
Whilst studying for my degrees, I worked in hospitals across Bristol as a Healthcare Assistant, taking care of people from a variety of backgrounds, with a variety of issues. When I began training as a therapist, I completed placements as a trainee in nursing homes, mental health organisations and hospitals, day centres and universities.
Once I qualified, I began working as a Specialist Mental Health Mentor in Universities (later I also worked part-time as a lecturer in Creative Writing), and got my first role as a dramatherapist at a wellbeing centre for people with profound learning disabilities. I opened Bristol Dramatherapy in 2016, and since then have run workshops, spoken at conferences, moved the practice to what was once a independent café, and best of all, have been honoured and privileged to meet, support and help so many clients through this journey we call life. But the goal remains the same, be consistent, be authentic, create, discover, and move towards healing and thriving.
Training & Examples of Further Training
- BA (Hons) First Class in Drama (University of the West of England) 2014
- MA Drama and Movement Therapy (Royal Central School of Speech & Drama) 2016
- Self Harm and Suicide Prevention
- CATT (Children’s Accelerated Trauma Technique for PTSD & C-PTSD)
- Anxiety and Stress Prevention
- Creative Clinical Supervision (ReLight)
Creative Therapy, Mental Health & Wellbeing Services 