About Ruth Goodman

My name is Ruth Goodman, and I am a registered art psychotherapist with a professional background in primary education. I initially trained as a primary school teacher and worked as part of senior leadership teams in both state and independent schools, before becoming a Local Authority English Adviser. Witnessing the impact of poor mental health on both colleagues, teaching staff, and pupils led me to retrain as an art psychotherapist.

As a psychotherapist, I have worked in state primary and special schools, therapeutic private services, Child and Adolescent Mental Health Service (CAMHS), and in an NHS hospital.

Being a practising artist is very important to my therapeutic work as I find that ongoing creativity deepens my empathy and technical understanding of the artistic process. By engaging regularly in my own art-making, I remain connected to vulnerability, experimentation, creative blocks, and the emotional risk my clients may experience.

My Therapeutic Approach

Psychodynamic approach

My practice is grounded in the psychodynamic principles I developed during my Master’s in Art Therapy at the University of Hertfordshire. I work with both children and adults, supporting them to explore thoughts and feelings that may be difficult to express verbally. Psychodynamic art therapy recognises that our inner world is often communicated symbolically, and that creative processes can gently bring unconscious experiences into awareness.

A central part of my approach is the triangular relationship between the client, the artwork, and the therapist. This dynamic creates a safe and containing space where emotions can be projected, observed, and understood with greater clarity. Through this relational and reflective process, clients can develop insight, strengthen emotional expression, and build healthier patterns of regulation and connection. My work is always attuned, sensitive, and informed by an understanding of how past experiences shape present behaviour and emotional wellbeing.

Ruth Goodman's Qualifications

I qualified as an art therapist having obtained distinction in the Masters Level training at the University of Hertfordshire. I am a member of the British Association of Art Therapists as they offer ongoing professional development and support.

My first degree was a BEd in Primary Education specialising in art as my main area.

I am dedicated to continuing my professional growth, keeping up with developments in art therapy, and exploring additional therapeutic approaches to provide the best support for my clients.

Professional registration

I am registered with the Health and Care Professions Council and am a full member of the British Association of Art Therapists. I adhere to the regulations and Code of Ethics set out by these professional bodies.

I regularly access clinical supervision to support and develop my practice. I also maintain up-to-date training and knowledge in areas including:

Safeguarding children and young people
Equality and diversity
Safeguarding adults
Trauma informed practice

I hold a rolling enhanced DBS verification, professional liability insurance, and am registered with the Information Commissioner’s Office. I follow the General Data Protection Regulations to ensure that all information is handled safely and securely. I carryout regular risk assesments for client safety.

Ruth Goodman Art Therapy

Ruth Goodman Art Therapy

About Ruth Goodman

My Therapeutic Approach

Psychodynamic approach

Ruth Goodman's Qualifications

Ruth Goodman Art Therapy

Ruth Goodman Art Therapy

About Ruth Goodman

My Therapeutic Approach

Psychodynamic approach

Ruth Goodman's Qualifications

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