Tena koutou katoa, Ko Taranaki te maunga, Ko Te Henui te awa, Ko Ngati Pakeha te iwi, Ko Deborah French toku ingoa. I am a clinical Arts Therapist and Counsellor. Arts therapy is a form of Psychotherapy. My practice and therapeutic style follow in the tradition of person-centred therapy which honours you as the 'expert' in your own experiences. Working through a trauma informed and responsive lens I draw from a range of therapeutic models such as solution focussed, positive psychology, Hakomi, ACT, internal family systems, somatic approaches, relational and attachment theory. My intention is to create a safe space where aspects of your life and emotional experiencing can be attended to and explored gently in a supportive way using both talk therapy and a creative lens. Generally our time together starts with traditional ‘talk’ therapy until confidence and trust are established. I invite into therapy what is spoken as well as that which has no words and is felt, created, dreamed, and symbolised. I will encourage and work alongside you to find and explore ways to express yourself at your own pace. Authentic and supportive relationship is at the heart of how clients and I work together to increase capacity to manage everyday life, notice, explore and develop deeper awareness and curiosity of the self. I believe that approaching ourselves and others with curiosity and compassion leads to deeper understanding and growth. Our time together will be confidential, respectful, and collaborative. I have been working with children, adolescents, adults and families for over 30 years In primary, intermediate, high schools, special education, alternative education and residential settings as a teacher and more recently as an Arts Therapist/Counsellor. I have also worked as a Arts Therapist/Counsellor in palliative care supporting the terminally ill, carers, bereaved and their whanāu If are interested in reading more please look at my website. https://deborahfrenchartist.com/mamaku-arts-therapy/