Being a young person can be both a challenging and confusing time.  Aspects such as trying to discover who you are, the pressure of peer groups or fitting in, experimentation, changing relationships with one’s parents and growing up, and school or college pressures, can at times become too much for teenagers or young adults to contain alone.  Being part of a therapeutic relationship where what you feel and think is of key importance and value, in an environment of security and trust, can give you the freedom to understand  what is happening for you in your circumstances, to discover aspirations for the future, and to feel stronger and more able to enjoy life.

 

For some teenagers, complex situations and strong emotions are hard to put in to words.  Creative and imaginative exploration through image and art, such as oil pastels, painting or chalk, or using representative objects such as shells or animals, is offered if helpful to facilitate and ease expression.

 

 

'Shock to the system, whether physical, psychological or both, elicits powerful feelings for which words are inadequate, yet image, sound, movement and story can offer a welcome release. The arts help both to express and contain otherwise overwhelming emotions.'

 

Expressive and Creative Arts Methods for Trauma Survivors Carey, L. (Ed) 2006

 

 

Frequent Difficulties for Young People include ...

 

• difficulties forming friendships
• school phobia
• exam pressure
• nightmares / sleep problems
• family difficulties
• discovering identity
• anxiety and stress
• depression / social withdrawal
• bereavement
• being bullied / bullying
• parental separation
• physical or sexual abuse
• traumatic experiences
• low self-worth / self-image
• suicidal thoughts or feelings
• self harm
• eating difficulties
• obsessive / compulsive difficulties