Individual & Group Therapy

Psychotherapy & Dramatherapy for improved mental health & wellbeing in Aberdeen, Aberdeenshire & beyond.

  • Online sessions
  • Face-to-face sessions
  • Online sessions
  • Face-to-face sessions
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How does it work?

I have worked with children, adolescents and their families for over 25 years, supporting their mental health and well-being, in education and other charitable organisations. My training in both the creative arts and in therapy has enabled me to provide a bespoke therapeutic service that is confidential, respectful, collaborative and non-judgemental.

How are the sessions structured?

Each session has a clear scope and goal to achieve – find out more how we approach this below.

Sessions start with a time for preparation and reflection. This may be done through a visualisation or meditation or a grounding technique. Here you are noticing what is going on in your mind and body. Letting go of tensions and bringing focus into the session. Check-in circle – This is where you share your thoughts, feelings, memories, etc.

We will then agree a focus for this session. The focus/theme may be a one-off theme or could be something we want to explore in more depth over a number of sessions. Examples of themes may be relationships, fears, loss, anger, identity, etc. Dramatherapy allows themes to be worked with in many ways through both conscious and unconscious processes. We may use story, art, games, talking, movement, role-play, etc. within a therapy session.

Sessions will end with a time to reflect. Clients in both individual and group sessions will be given the space to be seen, heard, and acknowledged.

What materials are used in the sessions?

Materials used in sessions may include items such as art materials, musical instruments, books and toys. All materials will be kept in hygienic conditions to promote safe COVID-19 practice and general health.

Where are the sessions, and how long are they?

  • Parking is available at Bon Accord or Gallowgate Car Park

Group dramatherapy sessions usually last 90 minutes.

There may be up to six participants in a group.

Individual sessions will last 50 minutes.

The sessions will take place at the same time and place each week with myself.

By special arrangement, late afternoon appointments during the week are also available at Banff Academy.

This is a service independent of Banff Academy, so please enquire directly to Susan to find out more.

How would I work with the parent/carer and child?

It’s important to note that dramatherapy sessions are highly individualised, and the specific techniques and approaches used will depend on the unique needs and goals of the family. 

What is the difference between individual and group dramatherapy session?

Individual and group dramatherapy sessions are both approaches to using drama and creative expression as therapeutic tools, but they have distinct differences in terms of focus, dynamics, and benefits. Here’s an overview of the key differences between individual and group dramatherapy sessions:

Session format

Individual dramatherapy

In individual sessions, a client works one-on-one with myself. I tailor the activities and interventions to the specific needs and goals of the individual.

Group dramatherapy

Group sessions involve multiple participants who engage in various drama-based activities together. I facilitate interactions and activities that encourage group dynamics and collective exploration.

Group options are dependent if suitable groups are running at the time of your inquiry.

Focus

Individual dramatherapy

The focus in individual sessions is primarily on the personal issues, experiences, and goals of the client. The therapist can provide more personalised attention and address specific concerns.

Group dramatherapy

Group sessions emphasise interpersonal dynamics, communication skills, and social interactions among participants. The group setting offers opportunities for exploring how individuals relate to one another and function within a social context.

Interactions

Individual dramatherapy

Interactions are limited to the client and myself. This can create a safe and private space for discussing sensitive issues.

Group dramatherapy

Participants interact with each other, which can lead to shared insights, group support, and a broader range of perspectives. Group members can learn from each other’s experiences and offer empathy and encouragement.

Therapeutic goals

Individual dramatherapy

Goals often revolve around personal growth, self-expression, processing trauma, improving self-esteem, and addressing specific psychological challenges of the individual.

Group dramatherapy

Goals can include enhancing social skills, building empathy, practicing teamwork, exploring group dynamics, and developing a sense of community.

Role of the therapist

Individual dramatherapy

I work closely with the individual to establish a therapeutic relationship, provide personalised interventions, and guide the exploration of personal themes.

Group dramatherapy

I facilitates the group’s interactions, ensures a safe environment, designs activities that promote group cohesion and exploration, and helps manage any conflicts that arise.

Confidentiality

Individual dramatherapy

Sessions are highly confidential between the client and myself, allowing for a deeper exploration of personal issues.

Group dramatherapy

While I emphasise the importance of confidentiality within the group, the shared nature of the setting means that some level of information exchange occurs among participants.

Benefits

Individual dramatherapy

Offers focused attention on individual needs, making it suitable for individuals who may be uncomfortable in group settings or have highly personal issues to address.

Group dramatherapy

Provides opportunities for participants to learn from others, practice social skills, receive peer support, and engage in collective exploration.

Ultimately, the choice between individual and group dramatherapy sessions depends on the client’s preferences, therapeutic goals, and comfort level with group interactions. Some individuals may benefit more from the personal attention of individual sessions, while others may find the group setting to be a valuable space for social learning and connection.

Book online

Please do get in touch. Once you have set up an appointment, I will send you an email confirming the details of the initial session along with directions.

Visit me

  • Parking is available at Bon Accord or Gallowgate Car Park

Sessions can be booked in the areas of Aberdeen, Aberdeenshire and throughout Northeast Scotland.

Alternatively, online appointments can be booked.