"In a safe creative space, children often share through art what they can't say in words"

There are many benefits of art therapy in schools, including its ability to increase students' engagement and academic performance. When students feel supported emotionally and socially, they are more likely to be engaged in their academic work. 

Art therapy helps create a positive school environment where students feel safe to express themselves, reducing anxiety and increasing their willingness to participate in class activities. This emotional support translates into better academic performance, improved focus, and a more positive outlook on education.

While academic success is important, emotional and social development is just as critical to a student's overall well-being. By integrating art therapy into schools, educators can help students develop the emotional intelligence and coping skills they need to succeed both academically and personally. This approach recognises the importance of mental health in a student's overall development and well-being.

Schools that implement art therapy programs are also creating a culture of acceptance and understanding. Mental health issues are often stigmatised, especially in adolescent communities. By offering art therapy, schools are sending a message that mental health is a priority and that seeking help is a positive step towards healing. This cultural shift can help reduce the stigma surrounding mental health issues and encourage more students to seek support when they need it.

In order to facilitate art therapy, the school will need to provide a private room with access to a sink and nearby toilets, as well as a lockable cupboard to store the artwork. I recommend a six-week assessment period followed by a review to establish whether the therapy will continue. I will provide feedback to the school and write reports for the parents/carers. 

Fees for schools are based on the number of children requiring 1:1 therapeutic support. Individaul rate: £60 per child (weekly 50 mins 1:1 art therapy including parent/carer reports, teacher briefing and art materials). 

Reflective Space 

I offer structured, confidential spaces where staff can reflect on their experiences. I also bring a deeper understanding of the challenges of school life having been a teacher for over 15yrs.

This might include:

• Processing challenging interactions with pupils
• Exploring emotional responses (frustration, worry, helplessness)
• Thinking more clearly about how to respond next

I offer contained, professional reflection that supports their role.

Creative Reflective Sessions

Using simple art-based activities to help staff step out of “thinking mode” and process emotionally.

Examples:

• Using collage to externalise and regulate emotions
• Using colour or imagery to explore stress or overwhelm
• Creating distance from difficult experiences

This works well because:

• Many staff struggle to verbalise how they feel
• It’s gentle and non-intrusive
• It models the same approaches used with pupils

Managing Emotional Load & Burnout

Teaching staff carry a lot emotionally, often without space to process it.

I can support with:

• Recognising signs of emotional overload
• Understanding secondary stress / vicarious trauma (the emotional impact from being exposed to someone elses's trauma or emotional distress without directly experiencing the trauma yourself
• Simple regulation strategies they can use during the day

Linking Staff Emotions to Pupil Support

I help staff notice:

• How their emotional responses affect interactions
• Why certain pupils trigger stronger reactions
• How to respond in a more regulated, intentional way

This improves:

• Relationships with pupils
• Behaviour management
• Staff confidence