Art Therapy for Adults

WHAT IS ART THERAPY or also called PSYCHOTHERAPY?
Art Therapy is a form of Psychotherapy that uses art media as its primary mode of expression and communication. It happens in the presence of a qualified Art Therapist who provides a safe, confidential and non-judgemental space so clients are able explore difficult thoughts and feelings. Within this context, art is not used as diagnostic tool but as a medium to address emotional issues, which may be confusing and distressing.

It is not a recreational activity or an art lesson, although the sessions can be enjoyable. Clients do not need to have any previous experience or expertise in art. One may want to paint, draw or play with clay. One may wish to explore the materials, pouring paint, ripping paper or pushing chalk pastels against paper. Playing with materials will be beneficial for the client to find non-verbal ways of expressing how you feel.

It focuses on understanding what is going on "underneath" a presenting problem and it helps make links between our unconscious and conscious mind, allowing unknown thoughts and feelings to come to the surface and gently be explored for self-understanding. Understanding these connections can empower us to break habits, let go of unhelpful thoughts and feelings, process difficult experiences and form new ways of living.

Clients may have a wide range of difficulties, disabilities or diagnoses. These include emotional, behavioural or mental health problems, learning or physical disabilities, life-limiting conditions, neurological conditions and physical illnesses. Examples: low self esteem, anxiety, depression, early trauma, panic attacks, low mood, emotional dysregulation, anger management, stress, bereavement and loss, sleep difficulties, CFS (chronic fatigue syndrome), chronic pain, identity issues, attachment difficulties, relationship and social difficulties, adoption/fostered and neurodivergent (ASD/ADD/ADHD).

This short film from the British Association of Art Therapists (BAAT) illustrates a service user's experience.

An adult's perspective on art therapy and eating disorders.
https://baat.org/art-therapy/stories-and-experiences/case-study-2/

For more information on Art Therapy please go to The British Association of Art Therapists (BAAT) at https://baat.org/

ONLINE ART THERAPY

I always suggest in person sessions because of the real connection/relationship with the therapist, however, I also provide Art Therapy sessions via ZOOM, which can be equally effective and much needed when clients sometimes don't have the choice to do it face-to-face. Online sessions can also be an alternative for sessions' rearrangements so clients can do both when needed. This can be discussed at the assessment meeting.

COSTS
Book your FREE 20 min CALL for initial enquiries.
Call me, Irene Malvezi, at 07715601222 or email at

Before we work together it is advisable to have assessment meeting. If you agree that Art Therapy would be beneficial for you then it would be expected that you come for weekly sessions for at least three months, as continuity is vital for the therapy to be effective.

Assessment: 50 minutes - £60
Individual Sessions: 50 minutes - £75

Testimonials:

"I think everybody could do with a bit of psychotherapy in their lives at some point. That was certainly the feelings I came away with after spending 12 months working with Irene. Not only is she a standup professional and brilliant psychotherapist, but her style of work - using art as a medium and channel of sorts, makes for a truly unique and authentic experience. The artistic part of the process helps make things that can be very heavy, actually surface in a gentle, light and organic way. I couldn't recommend Irene more highly. I can be quite deep at times and Irene always made me feel seen and heard. Thank you for your patience, Irene. I got (and continue to get) so much from the time I spent with you." Lewis, October 2025

"I have been very fortunate to find an art therapist that understands, respects and allows room in our sessions to acknowledge my Christian Faith. This is an important part of my life and I appreciate that I can explore this in our sessions rather than it feeling like a separate part of me." Shamar, October 2025

"When I began the sessions a year ago, I was unsure about art, especially since I never considered myself creative or skilled in it. However, my experience with art therapy completely changed my view. I came to understand that art isn't about creating something perfect or traditionally beautiful—it's a way to connect with yourself and express feelings through colours, lines, and shapes. What truly stood out was how Irene guided me through this process. Her ability to interpret my paintings and help me notice what my body and emotions were expressing—without me even realising it—was incredibly powerful. It gave me space to pause, reflect, and connect with myself in ways I hadn't imagined. Even after the sessions ended, I find myself instinctively picking up a pen or pencil just to let something out. That ongoing impact shows how valuable and healing the process was for me. It's been an eye-opening and deeply meaningful journey, and I'm genuinely grateful for the space and support I received." Edith, September 2025

"I have been attending sessions with Irene for the past year as part of a training course, and the experience has been incredibly valuable. Irene is both friendly and professional, creating a space that feels safe and supportive. The sessions are mostly self-led, which has allowed me to explore at my own pace, but Irene always knows when to gently offer direction—especially in moments when I've felt stuck. Her guidance has helped me gain a deeper understanding of myself and has been instrumental in helping me move forward into the next chapter of my life. I highly recommend her as an art therapist." Claire, July 2025