What type of therapy does Arts Therapies UK offer?
Arts Therapies UK is the only organisation in the country that offers all five modalities of arts therapies:
Art Psychotherapy, Music Therapy, Play Therapy, Dramatherapy and Dance Movement Psychotherapy.
We also have therapists trained in other areas such as EMDR, couples therapy and talking therapies.
What does an Arts Therapy session look like?
You will see your therapist in a suitable room that will have art materials, musical instruments, and a space to move in, depending on which therapy you choose.
Your therapist will be calm and welcoming and will guide you through the process, always following your lead.
You’ll probably start by talking, and you can keep talking as much as you like if you want to.
Therapy sessions usually last for 40-50 minutes, depending on your needs.
Your therapist will introduce you to your options in the room, and you can choose to use them or not; it’s up to you.
Do I have to be "good" at art, music, drama, or dance to benefit from Arts Therapy?
No, not at all. It’s not about creating technically skilled artwork, learning how to act, dance or make music.
Therapy can be hard, and the art forms are there to help you get your thoughts and feelings out when you might not have the words, or it might be too difficult to say.
Some people find drawing or writing works for them, others find movement or body language, or role play and stories, or music – writing, listening or playing – a much easier way to express themselves.
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
Where will my therapy sessions take place?
We can see you online or at one of our many spaces across the UK. Once you provide your preferences via the self-referral form, our team will find the best locations based on your answers and give you options.
How many sessions will I have access to?
We recommend 12 sessions to begin with, as this gives both you and your therapist a chance to build a strong and trusting relationship. You will probably want to have more, and that’s OK – it takes time to feel safe to be able to express how you’re feeling and work through those difficulties. However, having said that, some people would prefer more short-term therapy. Just ask and we will accommodate your needs.
How often will I see my therapist?
Ideally, you will see your therapist once a week. This is so that a regular relationship can build on trust and reliability – knowing that someone is there when you need them to be. However, we can work to suit your needs and financial situation if you are not eligible for means-tested reduced rates.
How long does the referral process take?
We pride ourselves on a short turnaround from referral to therapy starting. It depends on factors like client correspondence or specific wants or needs which can prolong therapy starting.
