Sheila Green |Newbury

Why are you so passionate about Drawing and Talking as a supportive intervention?

I am so passionate about Drawing and Talking because I know it works. Over the years I have witnessed how this safe and gentle technique allows the child or young person to process their internal emotions and begin to flourish again. I absolutely love seeing the difference within the child/young person from their first session to their last.  When a child skips out of the classroom to have their session saying ‘I love doing Drawing and Talking’ speaks a thousand words.

What are the age range of those you work and enjoy helping the most?

I enjoy working with all ages, but as I work in a Primary school the majority, I have helped are between 5 – 11 years old. I have also worked with a lot of young people, some of whom are past pupils of our school that when needed, wanted to get support from someone they already knew and trusted. This means so much to me.  Drawing and Talking not only helps that individual but has an impact on the whole family unit. I am so very proud of those children, young people and the adults in their family for having that ‘hope’ in the Drawing & Talking method.

What areas of emotional wellbeing are you passionate about supporting?

I feel passionate about all emotional wellbeing, we all deserve to be happy, to feel wanted and have a meaningful life. Sadly though, so many of us have encountered some extremely traumatic and painful experiences. Areas closest to my heart are, abuse, eating disorders, bullying, bereavement and anxiety.

How has the pandemic impacted the mental wellbeing of those you help?

I have found this pandemic has impacted on children and their families in different ways. Some have become withdrawn, therefore spending a lot of their time on their own or a lot of time on social media. This has caused anxieties, cyber bullying, heightened distress, loneliness, worries and concerns about their future, panic attacks, transitions to secondary schools, separation anxiety, disturbed sleep, eating disorders and bereavement. In younger children, many are fearful of a family member being infected. However, some families have really enjoyed having that extra time together and making memories.

What advice would you give someone seeking support?

They are not alone. Every single one of us will at some time in our lives need a help in hand. That they are not weak to ask for help, in fact it takes a lot of strength to ask for support. There are people out there waiting to help and support. Reach out. There is always hope!

Please do not hesitate to contact me to find out more about Drawing and Talking and how this non-judgemental, gentle technique can help support anyone to overcome their barriers to find a healthier well-balanced way of living.