Counselling for artists and creatives
I offer counselling for visual artists, actors writers, musicians, performers and makers navigating the challenges of creative work, including creative blocks, self-doubt, perfectionism and the pressures of pursuing an artistic career.
Sessions are available in person in Kitsilano and online across BC and Saskatchewan.
Pursuing a creative life and creative work oftens means the path ahead is not clear.
Sometimes, a fresh perspective, a different approach or the supportive skill building is enough to help an artist move forward.
What creative folks bring
Some of what folks bring to this work:
artist block, and losing access to work that used to come easily
self-doubt and the inner critic
perfectionism, and difficulty finishing or sharing work
pressure around exhibitions, auditions, deadlines and performances
rejection, critique and comparison
self-worth tied to output or recognition
creative identity during a life change
anxiety, low mood, grief and relationships, which show up in the studio too
I work with the full range of everyday concerns as well, so you do not need to be a professional artist, or bring your art into session to work with me.
How I work with creatives
Therapy is adaptable, and we can make room for expression in session, including drawing, poetry and, of course, laughter. Some folks like to bring their creative work in. Others prefer to talk. Both are welcome.
I am curious about how past experiences shape the present and about what your creative life is asking for right now: what to make room for, what to integrate and what to let go of. I draw on narrative therapy, ACT, mindfulness and somatic approaches. In practice that often means noticing what the body does when you sit down to work, then looking at the story behind it.
Sessions vary. We might explore an uncomfortable feeling of a character, challenge a belief about what makes work worth making, try something new, and celebrate a finished project!
Common questions about counselling for artists and creatives
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Counselling can help with creative blocks, perfectionism, self-doubt, burnout and the pressures of pursuing creative work. It also provides space to explore personal challenges that affect your artistic practice, including difficulties with motivation, identity and confidence.
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Yes. Creative blocks can develop for many reasons, including stress, perfectionism, fear of criticism and changes in motivation. Counselling provides an opportunity to explore what may be contributing to the difficulty and develop approaches that help you reconnect with your creative work.
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No. I work with professionals, students, hobbyists and folks returning to a creative practice after a long break.
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No. I use creative expression where it helps. We can incorporate personal work when it feels right. Art therapy is a separate approach in therapeutic work and I can connect you to a specific art therapist if you are interested.
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Yes. Creative burnout can develop when artistic work becomes associated with constant pressure, financial uncertainty or unrealistic expectations. Counselling helps you understand the demands contributing to your exhaustion and explore changes that make your creative practice more manageable.
Meet with me
Finding a good fit and relationship with a counsellor is a part of the process. Booking a consult is a low-pressure way of meeting to see how it feels.