And if it’s true we are alone,
From Belonging by Rosemerry Wahtola Trommer
we are alone together,
the way blades of grass
are alone, but exist as a field.
What is art psychotherapy?
Art psychotherapy is a form of therapy that invites creative expression alongside talking. Using art materials can help you explore thoughts and feelings that may be difficult to express with words. You don’t need to be good at art — it’s not about creating something perfect, but about using the creative process to support emotional insight and healing.
Do I have to use art materials
Not at all. Some people enjoy using art-making as part of the process, while others prefer to talk. You’re always in control of how we work together — I offer creative tools where they may be helpful, but we’ll go at your pace and in a way that feels right for you.
What happens in a typical session?
Each session is 50 minutes and takes place at the same time each week where possible. The space is led by you — some sessions may involve using art materials, others might centre around conversation. I offer gentle structure, support, and reflection to help you explore whatever is present for you.
How many sessions will I need?
There’s no fixed number. Some people come for a short period to work through something specific, while others choose longer-term therapy. We’ll review things together regularly and you can decide what’s right for you.
Is art therapy suitable for me?
Art psychotherapy can be helpful for a wide range of emotional difficulties, including anxiety, depression, grief, trauma, low self-esteem, and life transitions. You don’t need to be experiencing a crisis to benefit. It’s a space for reflection, self-discovery, and emotional support — wherever you are in life.
Where do sessions take place?
I have an art therapy studio space at:
Unit 68B, Harland Works, John Street, S2 4QU
What if I need to cancel a session?
Life can be unpredictable — if you need to cancel or rearrange, please give at least 48 hours’ notice. Cancellations made after this are charged in full. Just get in touch as soon as you can and we’ll work around it where possible.
What qualifications do you have?
Professional training: MA in Art Psychotherapy – qualified with a distinction.
Qualified teacher of biology (PGCE) and have taught at GCSE and A level as well as undergraduate BSc science and education.
Lived experience: I believe in the possibility of change because I’ve experienced it myself—through life’s challenges, growth, and deep reflection. This personal journey helps me hold hope for others, even in times of confusion, anxiety, or feeling stuck. With support, clarity and greater ease can emerge.
How do I get started?
You can contact me via my contact page or email me: kateackroydcooke@gmail.com
to arrange a free 20-minute initial call. This is a chance to ask questions, get a feel for how I work, and see whether it’s a good fit.
Art sessions confidential?
As an Art Psychotherapist, I adhere to strict professional standards around confidentiality. What you share in sessions remains private. However, in rare situations where there are concerns about your safety or the safety of others, I may need to involve other professionals in line with safeguarding responsibilities. I will ask for your GP’s details and seek your consent to inform them that you are attending therapy, though the content of our sessions will not be shared.
How do you protect my personal information?
As an art psychotherapist, to provide you with the best care, I will need to collect some personal details, but I handle all information with strict confidentiality. I comply fully with the General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR), which means your data is stored securely, used only for the purposes of your therapy, and never shared without your explicit consent—unless required by law for your safety or others. You also have the right to know what information I hold about you and how it is used, ensuring transparency and respect throughout our work together.
Kate Ackroyd Cooke 