About Karissa Patel
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I am a registered Art Psychotherapist, with the Health and Care Professions Council (HCPC), primarily practising in the educational setting - public and private schools - with young people in primary and secondary schools, sixth form and colleges. Having worked in the education sector for over 15 years, I have held multiple roles in various schools. Since qualifying as a psychotherapist, I have worked in numerous schools across London and with a number of local boroughs’ children’s services, LAC virtual schools and adoption services. I also run my own private practice - Kreative Pace (formally known as Karissa Patel Art Therapy) - working with all ages.
It is an incredible achievement when a client’s personal growth and development in emotional literacy and expression is visible through their articulation of feelings. When a client is confident, secure, resilient with increased self-awareness and a positive outlook on life, it is extremely fulfilling and rewarding - it’s why I love what I do!
The Founding of Kreative Pace
Kreative Pace was founded on the idea that, as a therapy and wellbeing service, we aid in the embarkment and sustainability of your emotional healing and the journey to a creative wellbeing; seeking truth, light and trusting your pace.
Thus, our logo…
Sunflowers symbolise positivity and a desire to seek light and truth. Hummingbirds symbolise healing, and naturally, go at their own pace.
Qualifications
Art Psychotherapy, MA | University of Hertfordshire
Arts Therapies Foundations | University of Hertfordshire
Psychology, BA | California State University Sacramento
Art, AA | Sacramento City College
Training
To provide quality therapy, I am cautious to stay updated on my approach and practice through Continued Professional Development.
Experience
For 5 years I coordinated the special interest group, Art Therapy in Education for the British Association of Art Therapists, organising and facilitating workshops for Continued Professional Development for art therapists working with children and in the educational sector across England.
I have also conducted art therapy groups with adults and older people experiencing mental illnesses such as bipolar, schizophrenia or personality disorder co-occurring with Dementia. Additionally, I programmed a group for adult carers in the community, providing a space of respite and social engagement combined with art-making.
Published Work:
September 2017 | Primary School Children Tell Us About Their Art Therapy | BAAT Blog
March 2017 | 5 Misconceptions of Art Therapy | The Counsellors Cafe Magazine
September 2016 | Demystifying The Misconceptions of Art Therapy | PsychReg