Creative Therapy Counselling in Edinburgh

Photo of Christiane Kelegher, Psychotherapist, MSc, HCPC-Art Therap.
Christiane Kelegher
Psychotherapist, MSc, HCPC-Art Therap.
3 Endorsed
Online Only
As an Art psychotherapist I recognise that there is many creative ways to explore and reach your therapeutic aims.
I work in collaboration with my clients to find what they would like to bring into the therapy room and have a particular interest in personal identities and how my clients wish to be seen and accepted in the world. This includes identities around chronic illness and disability, as well as around gender, sexuality and relationship diversity. I do not work as a blank mirror but instead use my knowledge and training to create a dialogue between me and my clients.
As an Art psychotherapist I recognise that there is many creative ways to explore and reach your therapeutic aims.
I work in collaboration with my clients to find what they would like to bring into the therapy room and have a particular interest in personal identities and how my clients wish to be seen and accepted in the world. This includes identities around chronic illness and disability, as well as around gender, sexuality and relationship diversity. I do not work as a blank mirror but instead use my knowledge and training to create a dialogue between me and my clients.
0191 743 0329 View 0191 743 0329
Photo of Kirsti Willis - Autistically Brilliant/Kirsti Willis BSc, MSc, MSc, MSc
Hi, I'm Kirsti, an autistic Art Psychotherapist (HCPC and BAAT reg.).
Counselling with me uses your strengths and interests, creating a safe space where you feel empowered to make positive changes gradually and sustainably. Additionally, I offer art psychotherapy, which can be particularly effective when it comes to trauma, opening new doors in to the unconscious. We can also use some creative elements in "regular" counselling
Hi, I'm Kirsti, an autistic Art Psychotherapist (HCPC and BAAT reg.).
Counselling with me uses your strengths and interests, creating a safe space where you feel empowered to make positive changes gradually and sustainably. Additionally, I offer art psychotherapy, which can be particularly effective when it comes to trauma, opening new doors in to the unconscious. We can also use some creative elements in "regular" counselling
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Photo of Paul Drewnicki, Psychotherapist, MSc, HCPC-Art Therap.
Paul Drewnicki
Psychotherapist, MSc, HCPC-Art Therap.
1 Endorsed
Hello I’m Paul, an Art Therapist with experience helping individuals heal and grow through creativity.
I offer support with a focus on Trauma, Addiction, Anxiety and Depression, and LGBTQ+ issues
Hello I’m Paul, an Art Therapist with experience helping individuals heal and grow through creativity.
I offer support with a focus on Trauma, Addiction, Anxiety and Depression, and LGBTQ+ issues
0131 357 6121 View 0131 357 6121
Photo of Krzysztof Wlodarski - Be Yourself Psychotherapy , Psychotherapist, DCounsPsych, MBABCP
Be Yourself Psychotherapy
Psychotherapist, DCounsPsych, MBABCP
Waitlist for new clients
I also incorporate body based techniques, psychodrama and art therapy.
Starting therapy can feel like a big step—but you don’t have to do it alone. In our first session, we’ll explore what’s brought you here and how your challenges are affecting your life. Difficulties like anxiety or low mood don’t have to rule you—you can gain more understanding and control. We’ll focus on building self-awareness, as gaining insight into your needs, patterns, and emotions is a powerful first step toward gaining control and creating meaningful change. That journey can begin with a conversation.
I also incorporate body based techniques, psychodrama and art therapy.
Starting therapy can feel like a big step—but you don’t have to do it alone. In our first session, we’ll explore what’s brought you here and how your challenges are affecting your life. Difficulties like anxiety or low mood don’t have to rule you—you can gain more understanding and control. We’ll focus on building self-awareness, as gaining insight into your needs, patterns, and emotions is a powerful first step toward gaining control and creating meaningful change. That journey can begin with a conversation.
01764 915872 View 01764 915872
Photo of Wen-Hui Helen Chuang - Bilingual Art Therapist - Helen, Psychotherapist, MSc, HCPC-Art Therap.
Bilingual Art Therapist - Helen
Psychotherapist, MSc, HCPC-Art Therap.
2 Endorsed
Art therapy can be a transformative space for children and young people struggling with emotional regulation, compulsive behaviours, anxiety, or disengagement at school, home, or in the community.
I offer a safe, creative, and non-judgemental space where emotions can be explored beyond words. My practice is person-centred and trauma-informed, supporting children and young people by using a flexible and collaborative approach. I help clients build self-awareness, develop coping strategies, and navigate life’s challenges through artistic expression.
Art therapy can be a transformative space for children and young people struggling with emotional regulation, compulsive behaviours, anxiety, or disengagement at school, home, or in the community.
I offer a safe, creative, and non-judgemental space where emotions can be explored beyond words. My practice is person-centred and trauma-informed, supporting children and young people by using a flexible and collaborative approach. I help clients build self-awareness, develop coping strategies, and navigate life’s challenges through artistic expression.
0131 381 7564 View 0131 381 7564
Photo of Florence Gordon, Psychotherapist, MSc, HCPC-Art Therap.
Florence Gordon
Psychotherapist, MSc, HCPC-Art Therap.
1 Endorsed
I view my role as a supporter who works alongside you to help you feel safe/ brave enough to explore your inner world. There can be as much or as little art-making/ talking as you wish. Prior experience or interest in art is not necessary to benefit from art psychotherapy. I have experience working with those affected by trauma, chronic illness, anxiety, depression, social isolation, complex grief, learning difficulties, and societal oppression. I also have lived experience of Obsessive Compulsive Disorder and understand the nuance and sensitivity required for treatment. I am looking into training to deliver ERP.
I view my role as a supporter who works alongside you to help you feel safe/ brave enough to explore your inner world. There can be as much or as little art-making/ talking as you wish. Prior experience or interest in art is not necessary to benefit from art psychotherapy. I have experience working with those affected by trauma, chronic illness, anxiety, depression, social isolation, complex grief, learning difficulties, and societal oppression. I also have lived experience of Obsessive Compulsive Disorder and understand the nuance and sensitivity required for treatment. I am looking into training to deliver ERP.
Photo of Mariana Loewy - Creative Arts Therapies Space CIC, Psychotherapist, MSc, HCPC-Art Therap.
Creative Arts Therapies Space CIC
Psychotherapist, MSc, HCPC-Art Therap.
3 Endorsed
CATS provides accessible and affordable creative therapy services to individuals seeking mental health support.
Looking for support with an HCPC-registered art, music, or dramatherapist? At Creative Arts Therapies Space (CATS) in central Edinburgh, we make therapy available and affordable for those who need it most. As an HCPC compliant and ICO-registered organisation, we ensure safe, professional, and confidential care.
CATS provides accessible and affordable creative therapy services to individuals seeking mental health support.
Looking for support with an HCPC-registered art, music, or dramatherapist? At Creative Arts Therapies Space (CATS) in central Edinburgh, we make therapy available and affordable for those who need it most. As an HCPC compliant and ICO-registered organisation, we ensure safe, professional, and confidential care.
0131 381 5430 View 0131 381 5430
Photo of Dr Susan Mackay, Psychotherapist, PhD, HCPC-Art Therap.
Dr Susan Mackay
Psychotherapist, PhD, HCPC-Art Therap.
In sessions with me, along with words, we can use art materials, or any to hand objects, like a pencil, a piece of paper or string to express what is happening for you.
This form of therapy can be helpful irrespective of the challenges you are facing. In the NHS, I worked with adults suffering from substance misuse, brain injury, self harm, anxiety, and depression. My doctorate explored sex, sexuality and alternative lifestyles. Whatever you bring I will be with you, pay attention, follow your pace, and encourage your aims.
In sessions with me, along with words, we can use art materials, or any to hand objects, like a pencil, a piece of paper or string to express what is happening for you.
This form of therapy can be helpful irrespective of the challenges you are facing. In the NHS, I worked with adults suffering from substance misuse, brain injury, self harm, anxiety, and depression. My doctorate explored sex, sexuality and alternative lifestyles. Whatever you bring I will be with you, pay attention, follow your pace, and encourage your aims.
01764 915903 View 01764 915903
Photo of Priyanka Pookadan, Psychotherapist, MSc, HCPC-Art Therap.
Priyanka Pookadan
Psychotherapist, MSc, HCPC-Art Therap.
1 Endorsed
If you find it challenging to express your emotions with words, in addition to traditional 'talking therapy', I invite you to explore your expressions through the use of art materials, which I provide in the therapy space.
Sometimes life throws challenges in front of us which we may struggle to cope with. This could be a sudden and unexpected change like a loss or bereavement. It could be something that we have always struggled with that is making it challenging to move forward with life. Situations such as these can be stressful, and sometimes we can't shake off the anxiety and depression or we may even experience anhedonia (inability to feel pleasure in usually pleasurable activities). It might also be a past trauma or abuse that is causing the challenges in the present life, revealing itself as panic for example.
If you find it challenging to express your emotions with words, in addition to traditional 'talking therapy', I invite you to explore your expressions through the use of art materials, which I provide in the therapy space.
Sometimes life throws challenges in front of us which we may struggle to cope with. This could be a sudden and unexpected change like a loss or bereavement. It could be something that we have always struggled with that is making it challenging to move forward with life. Situations such as these can be stressful, and sometimes we can't shake off the anxiety and depression or we may even experience anhedonia (inability to feel pleasure in usually pleasurable activities). It might also be a past trauma or abuse that is causing the challenges in the present life, revealing itself as panic for example.
01764 915906 View 01764 915906
Photo of Maristela Lima-Napier, Psychotherapist, MBACP
Maristela Lima-Napier
Psychotherapist, MBACP
Edinburgh EH10
I offer creative approaches like sand play and art to help communicate emotions when words are hard to find.
Some of the issues people struggle with are: Anxiety / Depression / ADHD /ASD/ self-esteem / Changing negative habits / Loss / Stress / Relationships / Improving communication / ACEs & PTSD / Recognising and regulating comorbidities generated by ASD, Asperger Syndrome, ADHD, Borderline Disorder / Chronic Pain Co-dependency / sexuality.
I offer creative approaches like sand play and art to help communicate emotions when words are hard to find.
Some of the issues people struggle with are: Anxiety / Depression / ADHD /ASD/ self-esteem / Changing negative habits / Loss / Stress / Relationships / Improving communication / ACEs & PTSD / Recognising and regulating comorbidities generated by ASD, Asperger Syndrome, ADHD, Borderline Disorder / Chronic Pain Co-dependency / sexuality.
07593 342528 View 07593 342528
Photo of Anne Bulmer, Psychotherapist, MSc, HCPC-Art Therap.
Anne Bulmer
Psychotherapist, MSc, HCPC-Art Therap.
4 Endorsed
I am interested in the connection between mental health and creativity, and how art making can support our journey together.
I offer a confidential, safe, welcoming non-judgemental space where together we can build a therapeutic relationship that is built on curiosity and compassion. Art making and thinking and reflecting together can support the untangling of complex feelings and help to bring understanding, kindness and a greater awareness and develop confidence and self-esteem
I am interested in the connection between mental health and creativity, and how art making can support our journey together.
I offer a confidential, safe, welcoming non-judgemental space where together we can build a therapeutic relationship that is built on curiosity and compassion. Art making and thinking and reflecting together can support the untangling of complex feelings and help to bring understanding, kindness and a greater awareness and develop confidence and self-esteem
0131 381 7117 View 0131 381 7117
Photo of Catherine Eckersall, Psychotherapist, MSc, HCPC-Art Therap.
Catherine Eckersall
Psychotherapist, MSc, HCPC-Art Therap.
1 Endorsed
I’m Catherine, a HCPC registered Art Therapist based in Edinburgh.
I have extensive experience of supporting clients affected by domestic and familial abuse, and I am confident in working with neurodiverse clients. I also have experience of working with children and young people in a variety of different settings.
I’m Catherine, a HCPC registered Art Therapist based in Edinburgh.
I have extensive experience of supporting clients affected by domestic and familial abuse, and I am confident in working with neurodiverse clients. I also have experience of working with children and young people in a variety of different settings.
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Photo of Claudia Miller, Counsellor, MA, MBACP
Claudia Miller
Counsellor, MA, MBACP
For children 3+, art and play therapy are available and I can work with those 12+ online.
I am an integrative counsellor working in person in Edinburgh and online nationwide with adults, children and offering parental consultations. Whether in person or online we will work together to build a warm, safe and confidential space for you to address your present concerns. I have experience of working with and not limited to in adults: anxiety, depression, trauma, relationship issues, family separation, grief, loss, bullying, refugee status, the impact of the menstrual cycle on mental health, agoraphobia, work stress, self-harm and low self-esteem, including that stemming from the impact of social media and online platforms.
For children 3+, art and play therapy are available and I can work with those 12+ online.
I am an integrative counsellor working in person in Edinburgh and online nationwide with adults, children and offering parental consultations. Whether in person or online we will work together to build a warm, safe and confidential space for you to address your present concerns. I have experience of working with and not limited to in adults: anxiety, depression, trauma, relationship issues, family separation, grief, loss, bullying, refugee status, the impact of the menstrual cycle on mental health, agoraphobia, work stress, self-harm and low self-esteem, including that stemming from the impact of social media and online platforms.
0131 381 6592 View 0131 381 6592
Photo of Caroline Finn - Caroline Finn Art Therapy, Psychotherapist, HCPC-Art Therap.
Caroline Finn Art Therapy
Psychotherapist, HCPC-Art Therap.
Art Therapy utilises the creation of artwork during the session as a means to discuss deeper feelings and concerns within a safe and confidential relationship.
I work with adults and teenagers. You may have issues with anxiety or trauma and are looking for ways to regulate or ground yourself and work through the trauma. There may be attachment issues established in childhood that have been unhelpful in adulthood. Perhaps you require a confidential place to process distressing things you have experienced, or somewhere to take ownership of your story and change your narrative.
Art Therapy utilises the creation of artwork during the session as a means to discuss deeper feelings and concerns within a safe and confidential relationship.
I work with adults and teenagers. You may have issues with anxiety or trauma and are looking for ways to regulate or ground yourself and work through the trauma. There may be attachment issues established in childhood that have been unhelpful in adulthood. Perhaps you require a confidential place to process distressing things you have experienced, or somewhere to take ownership of your story and change your narrative.
0131 322 1670 View 0131 322 1670
Photo of Paula Benhaddad, Counsellor, MCOSCA
Paula Benhaddad
Counsellor, MCOSCA
Edinburgh EH16
I work creatively, and often use art, mindfulness and story to support my work with clients.
I am an experienced psychotherapist; I work with adults and young people. I know it is a big step to reach out and seek support. Sometimes even the strongest people need help to work through life’s more challenging problems. You may feel stuck. Like you are swimming through a sea of treacle, and not getting anywhere fast!
I work creatively, and often use art, mindfulness and story to support my work with clients.
I am an experienced psychotherapist; I work with adults and young people. I know it is a big step to reach out and seek support. Sometimes even the strongest people need help to work through life’s more challenging problems. You may feel stuck. Like you are swimming through a sea of treacle, and not getting anywhere fast!
01337 320244 View 01337 320244
Photo of Dr Luke Barracliffe, Psychologist, HCPC - Clin. Psych.
Dr Luke Barracliffe
Psychologist, HCPC - Clin. Psych.
Online Only
I take a friendly, relaxed approach, sometimes weaving creativity and art into sessions.
I'm Dr Luke and I'm a HCPC-registered Clinical Psychologist - I help those who want more from life and overall greater self esteem. You may be adjusting to a big life event or going through a personal transition, such as in your health, work or relationships. I often work with those who are most critical of themselves and want to realign their life with their values. With experience in NHS and private sectors, I aim to create a comfortable and safe space for you to explore your experiences. I offer a free video or phone chat to discuss this further, and you can visit my website at: TrueMindPsychology. com
I take a friendly, relaxed approach, sometimes weaving creativity and art into sessions.
I'm Dr Luke and I'm a HCPC-registered Clinical Psychologist - I help those who want more from life and overall greater self esteem. You may be adjusting to a big life event or going through a personal transition, such as in your health, work or relationships. I often work with those who are most critical of themselves and want to realign their life with their values. With experience in NHS and private sectors, I aim to create a comfortable and safe space for you to explore your experiences. I offer a free video or phone chat to discuss this further, and you can visit my website at: TrueMindPsychology. com
0141 673 4754 View 0141 673 4754
Photo of Malgorzata Camyla Sikora, Psychotherapist, MNCPS Acc.
Malgorzata Camyla Sikora
Psychotherapist, MNCPS Acc.
Online Only
Engaging with art therapeutically can reveal hidden or forgotten aspects that negatively affect our well-being.
Do you want to understand what makes you-you and why you see the world the way you do? Do you want to increase confidence, learn how to cope with triggers and people without becoming reactive? Do you want to handle conflicts better and improve communication with people in your life? Do you feel anxious or easily overwhelmed and want to understand why and know what to do about it? No session or client is the same, and I embrace and encourage individuality. When we are accepted, we can tackle difficulties and explore complicated feelings. I want to offer you my full acceptance and a safe space to make the changes you want.
Engaging with art therapeutically can reveal hidden or forgotten aspects that negatively affect our well-being.
Do you want to understand what makes you-you and why you see the world the way you do? Do you want to increase confidence, learn how to cope with triggers and people without becoming reactive? Do you want to handle conflicts better and improve communication with people in your life? Do you feel anxious or easily overwhelmed and want to understand why and know what to do about it? No session or client is the same, and I embrace and encourage individuality. When we are accepted, we can tackle difficulties and explore complicated feelings. I want to offer you my full acceptance and a safe space to make the changes you want.
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Photo of Michael Cousin, Psychotherapist, MA, HCPC-Art Therap.
Michael Cousin
Psychotherapist, MA, HCPC-Art Therap.
Online Only
An art psychotherapists’ training is extensive and intensive over a three-year period, and it provides us with a framework that can be used to support a client with any mental health struggle up to the most complex issues.
Sessions with me will draw on three main areas, talking therapy and creative psychotherapy in order to get a full sense of you as a client and if appropriate to identify unresolved trauma to target with EMDR.
An art psychotherapists’ training is extensive and intensive over a three-year period, and it provides us with a framework that can be used to support a client with any mental health struggle up to the most complex issues.
Sessions with me will draw on three main areas, talking therapy and creative psychotherapy in order to get a full sense of you as a client and if appropriate to identify unresolved trauma to target with EMDR.
029 2271 2637 View 029 2271 2637
Photo of Karlie Lam, Psychotherapist, MA, MBACP
Karlie Lam
Psychotherapist, MA, MBACP
1 Endorsed
Online Only
I am qualified Mindfulness Based Cognitive Therapy Teacher (Stage 1), SoulCollages facilitator, Cognitive Motor Training Facilitator, Message in School Facilitator, Certified Zentangle Teacher, Nagomi Art Advance instructor, etc.
I completed my undergraduate degree in the UK before returning to Hong Kong for further studies. I then obtained my Master of Arts in Professional Counseling in the United States. Three years ago, I relocated to the UK to continue my practice as a therapist. I believe that clients are the experts of their own lives. My role as a therapist is to provide a safe, non-judgmental space where they can explore solutions or gain new perspectives. I am committed to supporting and encouraging my clients as they navigate their challenges, empowering them when they need it most.
I am qualified Mindfulness Based Cognitive Therapy Teacher (Stage 1), SoulCollages facilitator, Cognitive Motor Training Facilitator, Message in School Facilitator, Certified Zentangle Teacher, Nagomi Art Advance instructor, etc.
I completed my undergraduate degree in the UK before returning to Hong Kong for further studies. I then obtained my Master of Arts in Professional Counseling in the United States. Three years ago, I relocated to the UK to continue my practice as a therapist. I believe that clients are the experts of their own lives. My role as a therapist is to provide a safe, non-judgmental space where they can explore solutions or gain new perspectives. I am committed to supporting and encouraging my clients as they navigate their challenges, empowering them when they need it most.
01233 542787 View 01233 542787
Photo of Eleni Vali, Psychotherapist, MSc
Eleni Vali
Psychotherapist, MSc
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Since 2014 I have been working with clients using an Art Therapy approach to cultivate a path forward, grounded in self-compassion, insight, and change.
Do you feel stressed, overwhelmed, disconnected? Are you struggling with low mood? Do you feel your responsibilities keep pilling up but you are not able to cope with things at the moment? If you seek growth, healing, and a deeper understanding of yourself, we can work together through a safe and non-judgmental space to explore your emotions, unpack your past, and develop healthier patterns in your thoughts and behaviours. As a therapist, my role is to meet my clients where they are, honour their unique experiences, and help them harness their inner strengths.
Since 2014 I have been working with clients using an Art Therapy approach to cultivate a path forward, grounded in self-compassion, insight, and change.
Do you feel stressed, overwhelmed, disconnected? Are you struggling with low mood? Do you feel your responsibilities keep pilling up but you are not able to cope with things at the moment? If you seek growth, healing, and a deeper understanding of yourself, we can work together through a safe and non-judgmental space to explore your emotions, unpack your past, and develop healthier patterns in your thoughts and behaviours. As a therapist, my role is to meet my clients where they are, honour their unique experiences, and help them harness their inner strengths.
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Creative Therapy Counsellors

How does art therapy work?

The process of making art allows people to express themselves. Art-making can take many forms, such as painting, collage, or sculpting. The therapist asks questions that the work elicits, such as how the person felt while creating their piece, or if any memories surfaced that they can discuss. The therapist will then work with the patient to process their experience, understand themselves better, and work toward change.

Does art therapy help with trauma?

Art therapy can be a valuable treatment option for those suffering from trauma. Traumatic experiences such as combat, rape, or childhood abuse can be so painful that articulating them can be too scary or painful; creating art allows people to express themselves without words, and tell their story in a different way. The physical nature of creating art can also help people feel rooted in the body, which may benefit those who feel disconnected from their body in the aftermath of trauma.

How long does art therapy last?

The duration of art therapy varies, but a common length for treatment is 10 to 15 weekly sessions. Some people may see improvement in just a few weeks, while others may choose to remain in therapy longer term. Patients should periodically discuss their goals with their therapist to make sure the two are aligned on process and progress.

What are the limitations of art therapy?

Art therapy is helpful for many people, but a limitation is that it doesn’t have as robust an evidence base as other forms of therapy, such as cognitive behavioural therapy or acceptance and commitment therapy. The evidence on art therapy is mixed; some research demonstrates its benefits, while other research suggests that it has little impact on patients.