Emma Blijdenstein

I currently have availability on all weekdays. I offer a limited number of reduced-fee and evening places.

Would you like emotional support - but find that talking is not always easy? I offer a warm, safe and collaborative space where you can explore your concerns through talking and/or the use of art materials.

Sessions tend to be a mix of talking and creativity. But don't worry! Art making is optional. You also do not need to be 'good' at it. The opposite: the more spontaneous and 'unfinished' your creation, often the more therapeutic. By talking or making my clients can uncover and work through their difficulties and discover a new connection to themselves.

I believe that in order to heal, your nervous system needs to feel safe. My approach includes the latest in neurobiological research;  creating a feeling of saftey and an awareness of the link between body and mind.

Art materials in my practice include: paint, clay, collage, drawing, pastels, sand tray, and anything you might want to bring in. I also work with drama and writing. 

More about me

I trained as an integrative psychotherapeutic counsellor at The Institute for Arts in Therapy and Education in London (University of East London). Before starting my private practice I worked at a homeless charity and a charity for women who have been to, or are at risk of going to prison.

Originally from The Netherlands, I have lived on several continents and am sensitive to different cultural needs. I can deliver therapy in English and Dutch and also speak French and German.

My background (news journalism) taught me to listen and help people tell their stories. These abilities - combined with my love for creative expression - found a natural home in creative therapy.

I have a passion for bringing therapy to those who struggle most, whether this is socio-economically or women going through the (peri)menopause.

As an integrative counsellor I use a variety of psychological approaches. This enables me to offer broad-spectrum, personalised treatments. Sessions are client-led, meaning I am guided by the client’s needs.

My private practice is located in Acton, West London and offers a safe and creative space where clients can express, explore and work through their difficulties by talking and/or creative expression.

Creative therapy offers an truly individual way to unlocking and working through feelings. Soothing and freeing at the same time, I believe it can offer a uniquely empowering yet gentle route to healing.

I offer an initial, free 15-minute phone consultation. If we decide to work together, I will ask some more questions during our first session to get a sense of what you, the client, would like to work on.