Art Psychotherapy
HCPC-registered art psychotherapy in schools, supporting children experiencing emotional and psychological difficulties, including anxiety, low mood, bereavement and loss, and trauma-related stress.
Art psychotherapy is an established form of psychological therapy that uses art-making alongside the therapeutic relationship to help children explore and work through emotional difficulties.
In schools, it provides a confidential therapeutic space where children can express thoughts and feelings that may be difficult to put into words. Through art-making and their relationship with the therapist, children can develop a greater understanding of their experiences, supporting their emotional wellbeing and engagement in school life.
Art therapy is a regulated profession delivered by HCPC-registered art therapists (also known as art psychotherapists).
Learn more from the British Association of Art Therapists (BAAT) about what art therapy is and how it is used in schools.
How we work with schools
What makes our programmes distinctive is the psychological thinking behind them. Drawing on our backgrounds in art psychotherapy and psychology, we consider not only the creative activities themselves, but also how they are experienced by participants.
We pay attention to the emotional proce
We work closely with pastoral and SEND teams to develop therapeutic support suited to each school's setting and pupils' needs.
Depending on individual needs and clinical assessment, we offer individual art psychotherapy, often beginning with a block of twelve sessions, and small therapeutic groups, typically delivered over six weeks.
Our approach is child-centred and developmentally appropriate. We work with schools and parents or carers to agree the arrangements for therapy, while maintaining appropriate clinical boundaries and confidentiality. Therapeutic progress is reviewed regularly.
sses, relationships and meanings that emerge through art-making, bringing together creative freedom and thoughtful, psychologically informed facilitation.
What children may gain
Art psychotherapy can help children explore and make sense of difficult feelings and experiences, develop emotional awareness and strengthen their capacity to manage distress.
The therapeutic process may also support confidence, relationships and communication, helping children feel more emotionally settled and better able to engage in school life.
Each child's therapeutic journey is different, and the focus of therapy is guided by their individual psychological needs.
How to refer and what we need
Room: A private, consistent space, preferably with a sink.
Timings: Typically 45–50 minutes per session within the school day.
Art materials: Arrangements are agreed with the school according to available facilities and resources.
Referral routes: Usually through the school's pastoral or SEND lead. Appropriate parent or carer consent and the child's involvement in the consent process are required. We provide referral and consent documentation.
Data and confidentiality: Therapy is confidential, with clear professional boundaries around information sharing. Relevant information may be shared where necessary for safeguarding or other legal and professional obligations. Arrangements are explained to the school, parents or carers, and child as appropriate.
Enquire about our clinical services
We welcome enquiries from schools interested in individual art psychotherapy or therapeutic group provision.
Please contact hello@theholdingpalette.org.uk to discuss your school's needs and possible delivery arrangements.