The
Church Street Project is a registered charity providing
art therapy and counselling to young people in
Shepway.
Based in Church Street, Folkestone,
the project offers young people the opportunity
to access therapeutic support. Many of the young
people we work with have experienced trauma and
conflict – we provide them with a consistent,
confidential service where they can express and
explore the disruptions they are facing.
Art therapy is extremely beneficial
when working with children, as verbal therapy alone
is sometimes inadequate. It is safe and gentle, allowing
children to explore events that have troubled them,
whilst helping them work towards a more resourceful
life. Children benefiting from art therapy usually
become less resistant to learning and are able to
make their relationships more manageable.
During art therapy there are opportunities
to use art materials, therapeutic play and the sand
tray - these tools are underpinned by psychotherapeutic
counselling.
Art therapy tools allow the child to
freely demonstrate the trauma and conflict they experience
through play. This is particularly helpful when the
child is confused about events and how they feel.
For example, a dolls house is used to help the child
explain and demonstrate experiences that otherwise
would be difficult to verbalise.
We have no magic wand to make events
disappear but we can help that young person live
more resourcefully- helping them to find coping mechanisms
and giving non judgemental support.
 Vicki
Regan B.A MBACP
Psychotherapist & Art Therapist |
