Art Therapy for Parenting during divorce

Children of Divorce (CoD)

Navigating the challenges of parental separation and divorce can be overwhelming for children. That's why I offer a unique art therapy intervention designed to provide support and help children explore their thoughts and emotions in a safe and creative way.

Creating art can be a powerful tool for children to express themselves, especially when dealing with difficult feelings or experiences. I work closely with children, using art directives with mental health in mind, to help them gain a fresh perspective on their problems. By externalising their thoughts and emotions through art, children can distance themselves from the issues at hand, allowing for a clearer view of their situation. This process can lead to a deeper understanding of their feelings, the ability to resolve issues, and the development of effective coping strategies.

My programmes aim to increase children's understanding of divorce and parental separation, allowing them to process their emotions related to these changes. I help children develop coping skills to manage difficult emotions, improve communication skills to express emotions in a healthy way, and strengthen self-esteem through mindfulness activities.

Through trust-building and open communication, my programmes foster safe environments for children to discuss their concerns, needs, and feelings. I encourage healthy interactions with both parents, promoting positive relationships with new partners while establishing boundaries to respect everyone's perspectives. Maintaining consistent routines and engaging in stress-reducing activities are also prioritised to support their overall well-being.

In addition, my play interventions provide opportunities for children to learn problem-solving strategies, positive social interactions, and relaxation techniques that they can utilise outside of therapy. I also emphasise emotionally stable transitions during visits if co-parenting is involved, ensuring a loving and motivating environment for all.

At Picasso's Garage, I am committed to supporting your child through their unique journey, providing the tools and resources necessary for growth and well-being.

TOP CONCERNS KIDS HAVE DURING PARENTAL SEPARATION AND DIVORCE

Anxiety that parents will “disappear”

Feelings of INVISIBILITY

Worries about the future

Worries about money

Anxiety about divided loyalties

Concerns about parent’s well-being

FEAR of losing parental love

Hopes for reconciliation

Shielding parents from troubled feelings

"CREATE TO THRIVE DURING FAMILY DIVIDE" is the result of my thesis on Children of Divorce. Through extensive research on the impacts of divorce on children and effective therapeutic interventions, I have developed a programme that focuses on key areas crucial for improving outcomes for children in these situations. The programme incorporates elements such as Jungian archetypes, Wallerstein's six tasks, promoting resiliency, humanistic art therapy, and the use of the Superhero metaphor. Each art directive and weekly treatment focus is carefully designed to support children in their healing journey.

Key aspects of this intervention aim to improve outcomes for children of divorce; they include instilling hope, correcting misinformation and misdirected blame, disengaging from conflict, and improving temperament through managing loss and depression, understanding origins of anger, and establishing a safe space.

As part of my commitment to spreading knowledge and supporting mental health professionals, parents, teachers, and caregivers, I have published my thesis as an open-source resource. The full text version can be accessed on ResearchGate.