Creativity is not something that can be taught, contained, or scheduled - being an artistic, creative person is a wonderful gift and yet sometimes, it can feel like a curse. Artists often experience a paradoxical psychological inner world – they may possess a natural openness and sensitivity that can expose them to extreme suffering and pain, yet also to a great deal of enjoyment. Despair alternates with bliss; despair when not working, and bliss when they are busy, bliss when taking a rest, then despair at the thought of being idle.

People who are creative are often extrovert introverts; needing people and solitude equally, but have difficulty in understanding when. They are simultaneously humble and proud, both painfully self-doubting and wildly self-confident.

For artists and performers, the energy and emotional high that occurs when they are in their full expression, is indescribable to most people. The need to sustain this high or recover from it often leads to unhealthy coping mechanisms such as substance misuse, impulsive behaviour, social withdrawal and self-harm. Being on tour or location involves a disruption to usual routines, relationships and sources of comfort and regulation. Extended time away from home, and long periods of travel and transition from one place to another are draining and can leave artists feeling un-resourced and vulnerable. Show environments alone are incredibly stimulating with many different people, sounds and locations to navigate, let alone holding difficult thoughts around performance pressure, self-image and missing home. The competitive and fast-moving nature of the creative arts, means artists are at constant risk of burn out and periods of poor mental health as they negotiate the ever-changing landscape of expectation and output.

My background in music and performing deeply informs my therapeutic practice, and as a result, I’m able to work with those in most creative industries, and support them in all aspects of their personal life and their working persona. Therapy can scaffold artists at their most vulnerable whilst on tour and help them integrate the complexities of being in the public eye, whilst also nurturing their inner world. I believe therapy should be as much a part of the team around an artist, as their vocal coach or stylist – how their inner world functions, is key to their lasting external successes. Whilst a consistent weekly appointment is desirable for therapy, I am open to working flexibly in order to support artists who are away from home and without a predictable routine.

A 50-minute online, or in person session is £100