Counsellor Profile: Eleanor Betts
I am an Art Therapist and work primarily with young people aged 13-20 and adults who are accessing cancer care and their families.
Art Therapy is a form of psychotherapy that uses creative ways to explore thoughts, feelings and experiences. Sometimes it is hard to find the words to express ourselves; perhaps our experiences and feelings are too difficult to talk about, or the words don’t seem like enough. Art making and the use of images can be a helpful way to express what may feel inexpressible.
Art making also has physical and psychological benefits. It can feel soothing, reduce anxiety and help develop a sense of well-being and self-esteem.
You don’t need to be ‘good at art’ or have any prior experience of art making. In sessions together you are supported in expressing thoughts and feelings using a range of art materials to help make sense of painful and difficult emotions in a reflective and non-judgmental way.
Experience
I have 12 years of experience working in a variety of settings including schools, mental health services, charities, hospitals, hospices and in the community. I have specific experience working with the following issues:
In children and young people’s mental health;
- depression
- anxiety
- disordered eating
- self-harm
- suicidal ideation
- substance misuse
- sexual exploitation and sexual violence
- self-esteem
- bullying
- family breakdown
- bereavement and loss
In physical illnesses;
- oncology (children, young people and adults)
- life limiting and terminal illness
- end of life care
- bereavement and loss
Qualifications
MA Art Psychotherpy
BA (Hons) Social Work
Availability
Monday and Wednesday