Art therapy helps explore internal feelings

Art therapist Eveleen Murphy has set up a private practice in Killarney town centre with the aim of using creative expression to explore feelings.

Art therapy is a mental health intervention that uses creative expression to tap into how we really feel. The psychotherapeutic process can be used to soothe anxiety, release emotion, communicate issues and tell our personal story.

Eveleen has worked primarily with children and adolescents in the areas of bereavement, Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), ADHD, anxiety, issues related to the family unit, learning difficulties, behavioural and self-esteem issues. She is client led in her approach, promoting emotional regulation, integrating self-identity through art-making, within the therapeutic relationship.

Eveleen is a professional member of IACAT, has a Masters in Art Therapy from CIT and a Masters in Fine Art from NCAD in Dublin.

She is now taking appointments for oneto-one sessions with children of primary school age and teenagers up to 16-years of age.

Self-expression is encouraged through art making, safe holding and can be reflected upon with the art therapist. It is with the aid of a therapist that feelings can be integrated when exploring the image, Eveleen explained.

"Art therapy is not about analysing the image but allows an individual to arrive at an understanding of what is happening internally for them," she explained.

"Art therapy sessions take place within a safe and confidential space and materials are provided to explore themes or individual led art making. Sessions are client led, meaning the young person will direct and control what is brought up in therapy."

Eveleen’s approach is to gently guide individuals through their own feelings around the process of making and the image produced, helping them make sense of their personal experience and the world around them.

An introductory session will identify what goals are to be explored, sessions are 45/50 minutes and carried out weekly, at a set time.

Generally after six sessions a review will be arranged with the parents/carers to understand the best course for the child.

There are many benefits of art therapy for young people:

Lake Hotel appoints new Head Pastry Chef

The Lake Hotel is delighted to announce the appointment of Fabien Dupretz as their new Head Pastry Chef.

Fabien is an esteemed pastry chef and an accomplished chocolatier with 15 years’ experience in the culinary world. A native of France, having learned his craft in his home country, Fabien has gained a wealth of experience there as well as in Italy, Spain and Ireland. His career path has been filled with prestigious establishments, both nationally and internationally. Fabien completed his chocolatier, pastry and pastry chocolate master training in France, studying for a total of six years to complete higher diplomas in all areas.

“We are delighted to have Fabien overseeing our pastry section, he is a wonderful asset to the team," award winning Executive Chef Noel Enright said. "Fabien’s skill and attention to detail will amplify the sweet section of our menus and enhance the overall dining experience.”

The Lake Hotel is a multi-award winning property and most recently received three Irish Hotel awards. The accolades included Ireland’s Best Four Star Hotel, Ireland’s Best Chef and, Ireland’s Fine Dining Experience.

Offering an exquisite location and a unique experience for all its visitors, the family owned property has been in the Huggard family name for over one hundred years. Surrounded by nature and yet, only 2kms from Killarney town centre, the hotel is perfectly located to explore all that the wonderful Killarney area has to offer. Serving delectable dishes daily, enjoy lunch in the bright and spacious Lakeside Bistro, afternoon tea in the traditional lounge area or dinner in the award winning Castlelough Restaurant. For reservations call 064 6631035 or email info@lakehotel.com.

• Expression of feelings and emotions without words

• Relieves anxiety, stress and tension

• Increases confidence and self-esteem

• Provides self-discovery and meaning making after loss

• Positive coping skills

• Self-engagement and independence

• Emotional resilience and regulation

• Improved communication and concentration.

Art therapy sessions are confidential. Information will not be shared unless there are specific safety concerns. All images that are created are stored securely for the duration of the sessions until the end of therapy. If you are looking for art therapy for your young person, please reach out to Eveleen on 086 3375906 or email eveleen@eveleenmurphyarttherapy.ie.

"The portrait of in

Bridge

350 era," she said. "I just got her to pose, and it was a case of point and shoot. I’ve learnt so much from my fellow photographers in my four years in the club."