I offer individual nature-based art psychotherapy for adults in Sheffield, with a particular interest in our relationship with the natural world.

I originally trained as an Art Psychotherapist and have nearly a decade of clinical experience. My training included environmental art therapy study days, and my practice has continued to develop around creativity, nature and place.

My approach is grounded in psychodynamic psychotherapy, which considers how our past experiences, particularly early relationships, can shape the ways we think, feel and relate to ourselves and others. It can help us recognise patterns that have developed over time and understand experiences that aren't always fully conscious.

Nature-Based Art Psychotherapy

For some people, being outdoors can create a different kind of space for therapy. Walking alongside someone, sitting quietly in a landscape, or noticing the changing seasons can offer a different perspective from being in a therapy room.

I am interested in the relationship between our inner and outer landscapes. A particular place, path, tree or changing season can evoke memories, feelings and associations, while the landscape can sometimes provide a useful metaphor for experiences that are difficult to put into words.

Outdoor psychotherapy might involve walking and talking, sitting somewhere quiet, noticing what is around us, or simply talking. I bring some simple art materials with me, which you can use if you would like. We might draw, write, take photographs, make something with materials found in the environment, or use an image or object as a starting point for reflection. You might equally decide not to make anything at all.

There can also be space for poetry, imagination, stories and folklore. I am interested in the ways people have historically understood their relationships with plants, landscapes and the seasons, and how these stories and traditions can sometimes offer another language for thinking about our own experiences.

These are possibilities rather than activities you are expected to take part in. The focus remains on the therapeutic work and what feels meaningful to you.

You don't need to be artistic, knowledgeable about nature, or particularly "outdoorsy" to take part.

I work from a consistent location in Sheffield, returning to familiar areas so that we can become accustomed to the landscape and notice how it changes over time. Working in the same place can allow the landscape itself to become a familiar presence alongside the changing experiences we bring to therapy.

As outdoor sessions take place in public spaces, there are some differences from working indoors. We can think together about privacy, where we walk or sit, what you feel comfortable discussing outside and how we might respond if we encounter someone we know. Weather and accessibility will also be considered.

Sessions are available for 1 hour or 1.5 hours, depending on what feels most appropriate for you. The longer session can allow more time to walk, explore the landscape and settle into the therapeutic work.

My approach

Alongside psychodynamic psychotherapy, my thinking is informed by depth psychology, eco-psychology and transpersonal approaches. These provide additional perspectives on imagination, symbolism, creativity, nature and our relationship with the wider world.

I don't see myself as having all the answers. Curiosity is an important part of my practice, and I aim to create a space where we can explore what you are experiencing together, without needing to have everything worked out beforehand.

Working with me

My work is grounded in nearly a decade of clinical experience across voluntary and statutory mental health settings.

I have worked within a domestic and sexual abuse charity and most recently within NHS secondary mental health services, including a Complex Psychological Interventions Service, supporting adults with complex and enduring psychological difficulties.

My experience includes working with people affected by trauma, abuse, relational difficulties, anxiety, depression and difficulties with emotional regulation, amongst many other experiences.

I have been described as approachable, warm and containing, with a steady, patient and thoughtful manner. I will let you lead the way in terms of your expression and we can work at a pace that feels manageable.