Amelia Sturdy

I have been in practice as an Art Psychotherapist for five years and specialise in working with children and young people. My experience has been within the charity sector, in schools and as part of the NHS. I have experience of working with neurodivergent children, children who have experienced trauma, abuse, domestic violence, parental separation and loss. I work with children who suffer from depression, anxiety, low self esteem and those with behavioral problems.

I provide a safe, confidential space for children to explore their inner world through art making and creativity. Children often struggle to express themselves through words. Art can act as a medium through which a child communicates their thoughts and feelings in a more natural, less direct way. These feelings and experiences can then be thought about and processed safely. In my art psychotherapy practice I provide a range of art materials for children to use. For example, clay, paint, pens and textiles.

My approach is psychodynamic and I aim to build a trusting therapeutic relationship with the children that I work with so that they feel able to express themselves without fear of judgement. The sessions are child-led so that the children can work on the issues that are important to them.

In order to think collaboratively with parents and carers I offer regular parent reviews as part of the Art Psychotherapy process.