Lara Cooke

I work with adults, teenagers and children.

I am a fully qualified and experienced Art Psychotherapist registered with the Health and Care Professions Council (HCPC) and the British Association of Art Therapists (BAAT). 

Often words can fail us when trying to express our feelings. Art Psychotherapy is a form of Psychotherapy where art-making is used to help communicate and explore our emotions alongside talking. You don't need any artistic skill and there is no pressure to use the art materials in the sessions, you may prefer just talking or to interweave between the two. The art that is made is not used as a diagnostic tool, but as a way to explore emotional issues. Central to my practice is the therapeutic relationship, creating a trusting and a non judgemental environment where you feel able to open up about the difficulties that you may be experiencing. 

My practice:

I have many years experience in a broad range of settings including 6+ years working in palliative and bereavement care working with adults, children, couples and families, based in hospices in London and Rishikesh, India. I also work in community mental health, my background includes working with anxiety, panic attacks, depression, addiction, eating disorders, sexual abuse, cancer care, end of life, postnatal issues, pregnancy loss, hyperemesis and trauma (including PTSD). I also have years of experience working in primary and secondary schools with children and adolescents. 

I co-facilitate perinatal Art Psychotherapy groups. This includes a Postnatal Mental Health Group. We are also currently running a Pregnancy Loss Group.

My private practice takes place in both London and East Sussex (Crystal Palace, Lewes and Brighton). The studio settings are quiet and peaceful.

I also offer online therapy and supervision via zoom. 

I work with a psychodynamic approach to therapy and my practice is also informed by existential theory and thinking. I understand what a huge step starting therapy can be, it can feel scary entering the unknown and I will support you to navigate through this process. I believe therapy can open channels of blocked communication and self-expression, to bring about a sense of inner peace, harmony and healing. I have in-depth experience of working with people from all walks of life, cross-culturally and from a diversity backgrounds.

I am an associate lecturer at Goldsmiths university of London on the MA Art Psychotherapy course. 

I offer an initial telephone consultation free of charge.

I offer an initial consultation free of charge and I am available for therapy in person and via Zoom.