Jess Bowstead

Background

About Jess Bowstead

A motivated qualified Art Therapist, I am an impassioned advocate of all art forms, with a lifelong love of the visual arts. My trauma sensitive practice is led by psychodynamic principals and attachment theory. I embrace spontaneity, play and flexibility to suit the needs of the individual. I believe that the making of art in therapy - through mark-making, building objects or images - gives form to thoughts and emotion, which in turn can support and allow a safe exploration of personal experiences. Underpinning my deep passion as an Art Therapist is my experience and understanding that art-making, within a safe and therapeutic space or environment, can enable personal growth and change. I work flexibly and intuitively with children and young people (CYP). I provide consistent, safe and secure boundaries, where empathy and understanding can flourish, helping to foster collaboration in the personal goals of CYP. Provided both one to one and group Art Therapy, working actively as part of an MDT, within an Eating Disorders and Acute ward hospital setting during my clinical placement. Worked in local government, in both the library and arts services, for over a decade, facilitating and supporting community arts engagement, including arts and cultural activity across the borough of St.Helens.