Chelsey Thorpe

My Philosophy

In my practice, I often use art therapy and narrative therapy but also integrate other
counselling theories and modalities as I see fit. It is important to provide a safe space for my
clients to explore themselves while creating a therapeutic connection. The age group I work
with is 6-25 years old through both art and talk therapy.

Art Therapy
Not every emotion or feeling can be expressed through words. Art therapy can assist in bringing out emotions and feelings that you have left untouched or are unable to touch alone. Art therapy allows an individual to create verbally and physically through different mediums, in a safe, and non-judgmental space. It is helpful for children, youth and adults who have difficulty expressing their emotions or have experienced trauma, grief and loss, mental health setbacks, learning challenges, behavioural challenges, family problems, and attachment issues.
Individuals do not need to have artistic skills to attend art therapy, as it only requires imagination. Art therapy is beneficial to an individual’s health due to the relaxation aspect of the nervous system. This results in improved self-regulation, reduction of anxiety, and acceptance and integration of oneself. Art therapy assists with self-awareness, problem solving and self-esteem. Art Therapy is an effective, efficient, and practical way of expressing feelings and working through challenges, no matter how big or small. Research has shown that trauma is a sensory experience; therefore, art therapy can allow a relaxation response and increase the ability to tolerate life stressors. Art is a universal language; although we may feel affected by emotion or trauma, art can express how we feel with minimal words. The art therapist is not responsible for analyzing and creating meaning in a client’s work. The meaning behind the work is found through a meaningful conversation about the artwork when the client is ready. Art therapy supports individuals in addressing presenting concerns and reconnecting with themselves.

Narrative Therapy
Narrative therapy surrounds the idea that individuals are born into their stories, shaping their
reality, culture, and influences and leading to their therapeutic mechanisms. This theory
empowers individuals by exploring their narratives and allows them to introduce themselves to new stories. Doing this also allows the uncovering and finding of skills and abilities that may have not been used prior. Counsellors who use narrative therapy use a non-judgemental and respectful approach that centers individuals as the experts of their own lives. Providing clients with narrative therapy interventions, allows them to explore tools that enhance the self- management of their mental health.
There are several benefits of narrative therapy for children, youth and adults. Creating a story, allows individuals to understand their presenting concerns clearly on their terms. This includes using familiar language and conversation through narrating experiences with a counsellor and making sense of their past. The use of language also helps externalize emotions and reframing of experiences. By externalizing, a client can understand their past but also reconstruct them to include aspects of hope, empowerment, and flourishment. This can assist in reintegrating the client back into their life.
Please do not hesitate to contact me if you have any questions regarding the therapies I use.