Art therapy is a form of psychotherapy that uses art media as its main mode of expression and communication. This form of therapy is not about creating a fantastic piece of art, simply enjoying the creative process is key to feeling the benefits.
At Seashell, Art Therapy is a core component in our Health and Wellbeing team’s toolkit, and it is used to help students address emotional issues, which may be confusing and difficult to process. Usinga person-centred approach, our mental health practitioners support students through the highs and lows any child or young adult may experience as they grow and develop as individuals.
Jodie Luk, has been part of Team Seashell alongside completing her professional development at University and has recently joined our Health and Wellbeing team. She has taken time to share a little more about her new role as Art Psychotherapist…
My role at Seashell is to use art alongside traditional therapy approaches to support our students with their everyday wellbeing, emotions and sensory needs.
The one to one sessions can help students through, trauma, attachment issues, self-harm, bereavement, emotional and sensory regulation and communication challenges, amongst many other things.
We take time to explore individual’s therapeutic objectives, while leaving room for spontaneity and expression. The sessions can involve different materials, images and objects, alongside familiarity through having the session at the same day or time. The ultimate goal is to futureproof the student’s overall wellbeing and mental health.
Growing up, I had a close relationship with my Uncle who had disabilities. He inspired me to work within the disability sector, as he showed me how special a bond can be when other forms of communication are used as opposed to verbal dialogue.
While working at Seashell, I have completed my degree in Art and Art History, as well as my Master’s in Art Psychotherapy – the experiences and skills I’ve learnt during this, have really supported my development as a therapist.
A fun fact about me, is that my first language was originally Chinese…I didn’t know a word of English. However, I am now fluent in English, and not so strong in my Chinese!
The best thing about my job is that every day is different. You can do all the planning and preparation, but you sometimes must think/respond on your feet, which is always interesting!
Jodie Luk, Art Psychotherapist at Seashell
