What is Dramatherapy and how does it work? See section What is Dramatherapy?

Why would I choose Dramatherapy and not counselling? There are many different types of therapy. One size does not fit all. Dramatherapy, like Play, Music, Dance and Art Therapy is an alternative to talking therapies. Sometimes we feel unable to talk, we cannot get the right words or we feel uncomfortable. Sometimes we need to express ourselves in a different way before we can begin to talk. Dramatherapy gives the option of expression through characters, entering into our imaginations, exploring our creativity and thinking about the issues as indirectly or directly, as is comfortable. If you think this is something you or your child would respond to, why not give it a go, there is nothing to lose. 

What ages do you work with? I can work with all ages but children often do not develop their imaginations until the age of around 3 or 4, It’s also a good idea to start school first so that their communication skills are slightly more improved . In face to face work the child would need to be toilet trained and in online work the child would need to have a private space to use, with an adult nearby and contactable by phone. I do not have an upper age limit. You are never to old to learn about yourself or try out something new.

How much is it? How can I pay?  You will find the Rates at the bottom of each section:  Payment can be made monthly or termly in advance or weekly for Individual therapy or Clinical Supervision, and monthly for Group therapy or Freelance work. For my Freelance work in schools or with organisations I invoice monthly. Payments can be made by bank transfer

What happens in a session? How long is it?  Each session lasts up to an hour. Before we begin working together I will ask you to fill in a short form with your basic details. We will then make an agreement about our time together. For example I might ask for your phone to be switched off, and mine also, or we might agree to look after the equipment, treat each other with respect, that kind of thing. 

At the beginning of the session there will be what is called a check-in, where you can think about how you are feeling today and express it creatively, perhaps by choosing an image of a selection of postcards or molding some clay. Then there will be a warm-up activity of some kind, which is a bit like an ice-breaker, and it links into the main part of the session. It may be necessary to warm up, our voice, body or imagination. I will introduce a theme or aspects of the main session here as well.

The main part of the session might be creating a story, enacting a myth, folklore or ancient tale somehow, perhaps using puppets or pictures or sounds from percussion instruments. It might be that we look at a theme, or create a landscape in which a story could occur. After the main aspect of the session there will be a chance to reflect on what has happened and ground ourselves back into the present in order to leave the session well.

 I use lots of art materials such as paints, chalk, crayons, pens, pencils, clay, decoupage, I can also use sand tray which enables the client to use it to form landscapes with small figures and create stories or make sense of memories or events. If clients struggle to use their imagination or want to explore more concrete things this is fine and I have games and worksheets we can use or we can look at creating something together, such as a mask, memory box or a particular picture, such as a self-portrait. In online sessions we can use materials that you are already familiar with, or I might introduce you to something new.

How useful is online therapy? I started working online, like many counsellors and therapists, during the Covid-19 pandemic, and found that my work easily adapted. There are limitations and personal preferences but there are also benefits. Some clients struggle to physically get to a session at a time that fits into their lifestyle and commitments. The relationship and trust that is built between therapist and client is crucial in therapy. I have found that this can successfully work online as well as it can in person. I can advise you on how to get the most of your online sessions. You could book a free consultation and see how you feel.

How many sessions will I or my child need?  This is difficult to answer as it will be different for everyone. Often with children its best to agree a set of sessions, for example 12. It gives them a clear boundary. This can also be the case for adults. If we were doing ongoing work we would need to agree 4 weeks before the ending of the sessions, in order to close well. 

Where will the sessions be held? For online Private and Clinical Supervision work you will need to have a private, comfortable, confidential space to use with a device other than a mobile phone.  When doing freelance work in schools I require the same room for each session as constistency is key in therapy.

Is it confidential? What will you tell me about the sessions with my child?  Yes, sessions are completely confidential. This is a crucial in order for you or your child to feel comfortable with sharing and using the therapeutic space well. I do have my own Clinical Supervision and discuss my work there but this remains confidential and no personal details are shared. With regards to working with children or vulnerable adults this means that unless discussed with the client, or unless I have serious concerns, all personal aspects of the sessions will remain confidential. I do often encourage clients to share aspects of the session with trusted adults, but this is always their choice. This can feel difficult for parents, but it is important that children are able to express themselves freely without worrying about what might be passed on to you. This private space may be just what they need, to process, make sense and find their own solutions. 

Can I contact you even if I am not sure?  Of course, I’d be happy to hear from you. My contact details are here.