Emma - An Art Therapist & Creative Counsellor in Acton
Name - Emma Blijdenstein
Gender - Female (she/her)
Qualifications - Post Graduate Certificate (with Merit) in Integrative Arts Psychotherapy, Post Graduate Certificate (with Distinction) in the Therapeutic Arts, Professional Certificate in Counselling Using the Arts, Certificate in Counselling Skills.
Languages spoken - English, Dutch
Accredited Membership - Registered member of the BACP, Counsellor with the Use of the Arts (IATE)
Experience - I trained as an integrative psychotherapeutic counsellor at The Institute for Arts in Therapy and Education in London. I have worked as a therapist at a homeless charity and a charity for women who have been to, or are at risk of going to prison.
Practices - Face to Face in Acton (W3 6HR) , Online
Specialities - Art Therapy, Creative Therapy, Abuse, Anger management, Anxiety, Bereavement, Cultural issues, Depression, Identity issues, Loss, Menopause, Relationships, Self esteem, Stress, Women's issues
Fees - Individual Session Fee - From £60 per 50-minute session. I offer a free 15 minute phone consultation
Originally from The Netherlands, I have lived on several continents and am sensitive to different cultural needs. I can deliver therapy in English and Dutch and also speak French and German. My background (news journalism) taught me to listen and help people tell their stories. These abilities - combined with my love for creative expression - found a natural home in creative therapy.
I trained as an integrative psychotherapeutic counsellor at The Institute for Arts in Therapy and Education in London and have a passion for bringing therapy to those who struggle most, whether this is socio-economically or women going through the (peri)menopause.
As an integrative counsellor I use a variety of psychological approaches. This enables me to offer broad-spectrum, personalised treatments. You do not need to be good at art to do creative therapy! Sessions are client-led, meaning I am guided by the client’s needs. You can just talk, just make art, or do both. My private practice is located in Acton, West London and offers a safe and creative space where clients can express, explore and work through their difficulties by talking and/or creative expression.
Creative therapy offers an additional path to talking: unlocking and working through feelings in a truly individual way. Soothing and freeing at the same time, I believe it can offer a uniquely empowering route to healing.