Earth Art Therapy

Welcome

What is Art Therapy?

Sometimes it can be difficult to say how we feel. Sometimes we may not know what we are feeling, let alone how to articulate this. Other times, we may feel we know what to say but have lost our ability to live authentically. Art Therapy is a form of psychotherapy that uses art-making and creativity as its main mode of expression and communication; art is not used as a diagnostic tool but as a medium to explore and address confusing or distressing emotions, feelings and behaviours that may not be revealed using words alone.

Everyone is innately creative, but we often lose touch with this as we grow up and become more self-conscious (and often, self-critical) and reliant on language. By awakening your creativity, Art Therapy can help you to connect with yourself in order to better understand your emotions and relationships within the world, leading to positive change. Therefore, no previous experience or knowledge of art-making is needed in order to benefit from Art Therapy.

Art Therapy theory is influenced by psychoanalysis and attachment-based psychotherapy, drawing upon the relationship and unconscious processes at play between client and therapist. Art Therapy can also incorporate other client-focused approaches such as Mentalization and Psycho-education depending on specific needs. Art Therapy must be provided by an accredited Art Therapist and differs from an art class or recreational activity. The terms Art Therapy and Art Psychotherapy are used interchangeably.

What is Earth Art Therapy?

Founded in 2018 by Vanessa Mallin, Earth Art Therapy is an earth conscious approach to Art Therapy, grounded in Psychodynamic Psychotherapy and Ecotherapy. Earth Art Therapy also advocates for Art Therapy for social & environmental change and justice.

Rather than using conventional art materials, Earth Art Therapy uses eco-friendly and non-toxic art materials. This can be particularly supportive for young children, those who have allergies or health concerns, are pregnant or are conscious of their environmental impact. Unlike traditional therapy rooms, the Earth Art Therapy studio has been designed with nature connection in mind. Nestled amongst the trees in the countryside, the setting provides direct access to nature which forms a crucial part of the therapeutic process and has a profound impact on client’s wellbeing.

Providing natural materials and being surrounded by nature during Earth Art Therapy sessions and workshops is a fundamental part of what makes Earth Art Therapy unique.