What is Psychotherapy?

I've realised its something I keep talking about, with my future, and masters and plans yet have never explained its essence.

SO psychotherapy- who are you and what have you done to Tammie?

Somehow I had heard of it back in 2013 when choosing my University, knowing that Edge Hill had a masters I could follow through with if I chose to and got in of course. It was like I knew it was what I wanted, always reflecting back on how dance and the arts had helped me.

It's a form of therapy that is becoming more popular and starting to be heard mainstream in the UK yet with huge ties in Europe- especially Holland right now. It is 'non standarised' which can be applied to 'regular talking therapy' but only, in my opinion, as it is not seen as a social norm.

The NHS states it as;

'Psychotherapy is a type of therapy used to treat emotional problems and mental health conditions.'

'Psychotherapy usually involves talking, but sometimes other methods may be used – for example, art, music, drama and movement.'

For me the key points about psychotherapy is about creating a safe space where there is more options. If we can't express something in one way there are other forms- talking, moving, drawing... If we cannot physically speak about the issue we don't have to. If we don't ever want our therapist to know about it (READ; http://tammy130.wixsite.com/tammienawathe/single-post/2016/12/01/Visual-Kinaesthetic-Dissociation-Tecnique-could-this-help-you-or-someone-you-know) then we don't have to. AND by being in a creative atmosphere we are already creating something, making beauty out of our darkness places and building something to be proud of and rebuild our lives.

Where can it be found;

There are various psychotherapists in and around the UK which can be found with a quick google search. Most of them need to be registered onto a board ( UKCP | UK Council for Psychotherapy ) and so you can go online (https://www.psychotherapy.org.uk/) and find a therapist from the list.

Many people charge varying prices, and in London it can be quite extortionate- which is why my aim is to bring affordable sessions for people of all walks of life.

What is it used for;

'Physical Issues: Chronic pain, Childhood obesity, Cancer, Arthritis, Hypertension, Cardiovascular disease

Mental Health Issues: Anxiety, Depression, Disordered eating, Poor self-esteem, Posttraumatic stress

Cognitive Issues: Dementia, Communication issues

Social Issues: Autism, Aggression, Trauma' (Good Therapy.org: 2018)

'Drama therapy is the systematic and intentional use of drama/theater processes, products, and associations to achieve the therapeutic goals of symptom relief, emotional and physical integration, and personal growth. It is an active approach that helps the client tell his or her story to solve a problem' (National Association for Drama Therapy, 2014).

'Art therapy is the purposeful use of visual art materials and media in intervention, counselling, psychotherapy and rehabilitation.' (Edwards: 2004)

'Integrative approaches involve two or more expressive therapies to foster awareness, encourage emotional growth, and enhance relationships with others.' (Estrella, 2005; Knill, Levine, & Levine, 2005).

For me, pscyhotherapy is a route I HAD to go down. It called me in and fused my two loves, psychology/therapy and the arts. If you can help one person in this world it will have a bigger impact.

For any more information do not hesitate to message in

Travel the world and spread magic where you walk.