The Grove’s motto is ‘Practice, Empowered.’
The courses we run have this central thought at its heart; how can we enhance the toolkit of the mental health practitioners who train with us to better help their clients? Practice, empowered…
The Grove’s Creativity Weekend in December 2023 brings a vital yet often ignored element of our lives into the world of therapy.
Creativity is everywhere in our lives. Nature, music, art, sound, colour. Our clients experience it sometimes with a deep connection and sometimes entirely unconsciously. Bringing it to life in the therapy space can offer our clients a unique avenue for self-expression, healing, and personal growth.
For creative work to take place, therapists must first feel comfortable with their own creative selves to bring the various creative techniques into the space to help individuals explore and process their emotions, thoughts, and experiences in a safe and supportive environment. Many therapists feel a bit scared of this. Which is why we’re running this workshop to build confidence and competence in creative approaches for therapy practice.
Our Creativity Weekend aims to awaken the therapist’s creative self in a fun, safe and nurturing environment. Further, it will bring creative tools and techniques to help bring out the same in their clients.
Art
One common way creativity is employed in therapy is through art therapy. Painting, drawing, sculpting, or even engaging in crafts can enable clients to communicate and understand their feelings in a non-verbal manner. The creative process allows individuals to bypass the constraints of language and delve into their subconscious, unveiling hidden emotions and insights. This can be especially beneficial for clients who struggle to express themselves verbally.
Neither therapists nor their clients need to be artists who can paint like Monet or draw like Leonardo da Vinci. But everyone can make a mark on a page with line or colour or shape.
Storytelling
Furthermore, storytelling and narrative therapy invite clients to craft their personal narratives, allowing them to reinterpret their experiences in a more empowering light. By reshaping their stories, individuals can gain a sense of control over their lives and develop healthier coping mechanisms.
Music and sound
Music therapy is another valuable tool that taps into the emotional power of sound and rhythm. It can help clients release pent-up emotions, reduce anxiety, and enhance self-awareness. Whether through playing instruments, listening to music, or composing their own melodies, clients can find solace and healing in the world of sound.
What’s your client’s favourite song? If your supervisee were a musical instrument, what would that instrument sound like?
Mindful creativity
Creativity in therapy is not limited to the arts. Therapists can encourage clients to explore their creativity in everyday life, from cooking and gardening to movement and dance. These activities offer therapeutic benefits by promoting mindfulness, reducing stress, and fostering a sense of accomplishment.
Incorporating creativity into therapy is a testament to the holistic nature of healing. By engaging the creative spirit, therapists empower clients to explore, express, and ultimately transform their inner worlds, leading to greater self-understanding and emotional well-being.
Join us on the 2nd & 3rd of December 2023 for The Grove’s Certificate In Creative Practice weekend.
Sign up and more details here.