A Safe, Personalised, and Holistic Approach
I believe in the profound healing power of art, especially when it draws inspiration from the rhythms and processes of the natural world. Our sessions harness the therapeutic potential of creative expression through painting, drawing, textiles, clay, and storytelling to support personal, cultural, and spiritual transformation. Whether you are navigating anxiety, loss, trauma, neurodiversity, or seeking deeper self-awareness, our approach honours your unique journey and innate authenticity.
Every individual is met with respect and compassion. I cultivate a strong, trusting therapeutic relationship, offering one-to-one sessions in a serene studio overlooking the Downs, or in small creative groups and seasonal retreats around Brighton. The environment is designed to be safe and welcoming, encouraging you to engage fully in a person-centred, creative process.
Sessions are carefully tailored to your needs, weaving together the principles of arts counselling, shamanic practice, and holistic philosophies such as Anthroposophy. This integrative approach sees each person as a whole—mind, body, and soul—and recognises the interconnectedness of our inner and outer worlds.
Nature-Based Arts Counselling
Nature is at the heart of my work. Engaging directly or indirectly with natural elements—whether through outdoor art-making, using natural materials, or exploring nature-inspired themes—helps foster connection, creativity, and self-reflection. Research shows that nature-based art therapy can significantly enhance mental health, reduce anxiety and depression, and build resilience by grounding us in the cycles and beauty of the natural world.
“Experiencing and observing the light, colour, and form of all nature’s seasons can enliven us and reveal her treasures, allowing our soul to develop through creative exercises.”
Creative Modalities for Healing and Growth
I offer a rich variety of artistic techniques, each chosen to support balance across the faculties of thinking, feeling, and willing. For example:
- Colour work: Harnessing the harmonising and expressive qualities of colour to connect with emotions and restore equilibrium.
- Clay and textiles: Engaging the senses and grounding the body, fostering presence and creativity.
- Story and myth: Exploring the symbolic and mythic dimensions of experience, bridging the conscious and unconscious.
Goethe beautifully described colours as “the Joys and Sorrows of Light”—a medium through which our feelings can awaken and heal.
Transpersonal and Shamanic Integration
A transpersonal perspective recognises that every challenge—whether illness, transition, or loss—has roots in the soul. Artistic and shamanic practices are woven together to create a bridge between your inner world and the mythic, supporting deep healing and personal growth. Shamanic journeying, creative visualisation, and earth-based practices may be integrated where appropriate, offering a truly holistic path to well-being.
Arts Counselling for Neurodiverse Individuals
Your differences are celebrated, your voice is valued—whether spoken, written, or drawn—and your journey is honoured. You do not need to be an artist to participate; you only need the willingness to explore and create, in your way, at your own pace.
I am passionately committed to creating an affirming, accessible, and empowering space for neurodiverse clients. My approach is rooted in respect for each individual’s unique ways of experiencing, communicating, and engaging with the world.
Who I Support
I work with individuals and groups facing:
- Anxiety, depression, and stress
- Trauma and grief
- Learning differences and neurodiversity
- Life transitions and chronic or terminal illness
- A desire for greater self-awareness and connection
You do not need to be an artist to benefit from Arts Counselling—just an openness to explore and create.
A Pathway to Resilience and Wholeness
My intention is to support your recovery, growth, or acceptance, helping you reconnect with your inner resources and the healing rhythms of nature. Through the creative process, you can rediscover resilience, confidence, and joy, allowing a more balanced and fulfilling life to unfold.
Non-Verbal and Alternative Communication
Many neurodiverse individuals, including those who find verbal communication challenging, benefit from art therapy’s non-verbal language. Artistic expression allows clients to communicate thoughts, feelings, and experiences visually, without the pressure to explain or justify their perspective with words. An image or creative act can powerfully convey how you see and experience the world, fostering understanding and connection.
Sensory-Friendly and Inclusive Environment
I am mindful of sensory sensitivities and preferences. Sessions are adapted to accommodate different sensory needs, offering a choice of materials and activities, and ensuring the physical environment feels safe and welcoming. Whether you prefer quiet, low-light spaces or enjoy engaging with a range of textures and colours, we tailor each session to support your comfort and engagement.
Begin your journey with Arts Counselling—where creativity, nature, and therapeutic wisdom meet to support your unique path to healing.
Neurodiversity-Affirming Practice
Arts Counselling takes a neurodiversity-affirming approach, celebrating the strengths, capacities, and unique identities of neurodiverse individuals. I won’t seek to “normalise” or change who you are, but rather to support self-acceptance, self-advocacy, and the development of a positive neurodivergent identity. My work is trauma-informed and rejects stigmatising or compliance-based methods
Empowerment, Autonomy, and Self-Discovery
Arts Counselling offers a safe outlet for self-expression, emotional regulation, and self-discovery. Clients are encouraged to make choices about their creative process, fostering autonomy and empowerment. Art-making can help build self-esteem, confidence, and a sense of agency over your healing journey.
Group and Individual Sessions
Both one-to-one and group sessions are available. Group arts counselling can promote social interaction and a sense of belonging in a structured, supportive environment. Activities are introduced, respecting individual preferences, and encouraging collaboration and mutual support.
Benefits for Neurodiverse Clients
- Alternative communication: Express yourself through art, even if words are difficult.
- Sensory engagement: Explore materials and processes that are soothing or stimulating in ways that suit you.
- Emotional regulation: Use art to process complex feelings and reduce anxiety.
- Focus and attention: Structured creative activities can help improve concentration and cognitive control.
- Social connection: Group art-making fosters cooperation and community.
- Celebration of strengths: Every creative expression is valued—there is no right or wrong way to make art here.
My Commitment
I am dedicated to ongoing learning about neurodivergent experiences and cultures, guided by neurodiversity-affirming language and practices. I welcome feedback and collaboration from our clients and the wider neurodivergent community to continually improve the accessibility and inclusivity of my services.
Costs
Arts Counselling is once a week for a minimum of six weeks at a time. Each session is 50 minutes long and costs £70. Concessions are available upon request. Children under 18yrs are £60.
Ali is a fully insured member of AATA, BAAT, MBACP (Accred) and a qualified Arts Counsellor, having undertaken a professional training recognised by the Medical Section at the Goetheanum in Switzerland.
Get in touch
If you have any questions, please get in touch using one of the ways below.
