My approach

My approach to counselling

My approach

My approach to counselling

All natural

Across the website you may notice images of plants, mushrooms and wildlife. This is because I am deeply inspired by nature and love to offer the use of natural materials in my space (think rocks, moss, shells, sticks etc...) for clients to use.

I enjoy using natural materials in my own art making and am working towards one day being able to offer outdoor based Art therapy.

Tara in the woods celebrating nature and healing

Types of therapies (Modalities) I draw from

As I mentioned my approach is integrative, meaning I draw from different techniques to see what works best for clients and what would be most helpful. Please see some examples of core modalities I draw from. These Include Art pyschotherapy, ACT, CBT, Schema therapy, Neuroscience based approaches.

I consider core parts of my practise to also be influenced by trauma informed, anti-oppressive and feminist frameworks.

Art psychotherapy

Using materials such as clay, paint, ink, pens, collage, sandtray and more to explore experiences, emotions and thoughts. The use of art helps us to tap into unconcious feelings and brings them into our concious awareness to explore, discuss and connect with.

Acceptance and commitment therapy (ACT) & Compassion focused therapy (CT)

ACT aims to stop the fighting we often have with our negative thoughts. It works with the premise that thoughts and feelings just are, and if we can find a way to accept these with neutrality until they dissipate, this will help us to better regulate our feelings.

CFT is another third wave CBT approach and looks to utilize compassionate responses to dealing with feelings of shame. This can help us create better narratives of ourselves, to move towards positive change.

Neuroscience and contemporary research

I feel strongly about drawing from approaches that are evidence based in science. I love to use Stephen porges (1994) poly vagal theory to look at how the vagal nerve is impacted by and influences responses to trauma. I am always keeping up to date with research surrounding what is best for clients who have experience complex trauma.
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When working with neurodivergent clients, I like to pull from current research that is affirming rather than pathologizing. This includes theories around monotropism, spikey skill profiles and intertia to give a context to what we might need from others to have good self regulation and good self image.

“I sat with my anger long enough, until she told me her real name was grief.”

- C. S. Lewis

Hear from past experiences

Read how art therapy has made a difference in some of my clients’ lives, fostering self-discovery, healing, and growth through creativity.

*Please note pseudonyms have been used in this section to maintain confidentiality.

"What a pleasure it has been to work with you, it's always a joy to find people that you feel comfortable with and seen by."

Professional

"Thank you for always being here and making me 1000x stronger, I've loved working with you."

Cleo (13)

"I would like to thank you very much for the long journey that you accompanied me in, which allowed me to take small steps in the difficult everyday life after the loss of the person I loved dearly. In the past I was skeptical about therapy, now I have a different opinion, thanks to you my mental health has improved significantly."

Zofia (43)

"Thank you so much for all your incredible work with my son, You've been a critical person in helping him navigate a difficult time and we are forever grateful for your professionals, dedication and kindness".

Wiktoria (parent) of CYP Jason (9)

"It's so mind-blowing how one individual can really alt your perception and turn a negative chapter into something so peculiar in such a short span of time in an entire life ahead. I didn't even realize Tara, all the lessons you taught me and that I've accomplished... overall out of all the people I've worked with your approach has by far been the best. I hope I turn out to be just as good as you are when I'm older and in position to help other struggling young people."

Aurora (15)

*Please note pseudonyms have been used in this section to maintain confidentiality.

Creating a safe space for you to heal and overcome.

Useful links

Explore resources offering specialized support for neurodivergent individuals, caregivers, and professionals, with tools for education, therapy, training, and community well-being.