Who is the group suitable for?
The workshop is suitable for any young adult aged from 16 to 18 years of age. It may suit a young person who wants a more structured group to meet people of a similar age. The participants do not need to be “good” at art but it may help if they like it, or more importantly are prepared to give it a go. It is a gently therapeutic group which supports positive mental health so it will be good for the participant to be open to lightly exploring themselves and their wellbeing through art.
How does the group run?
In a small group environment of up to 8 participants the workshop will be situated in the tranquil Sweet Chestnut Studio at Anderida. The session will start with a gentle relaxation technique or invitation to think around how the art exercise that week can help us explore ourselves. The participants will be invited to join in with a simple art activity that will aim to be free of judgement or criticism and will usually be done to quiet music. At the end of the session we can share the artwork and any insights we may have gained. There will be an invitation to participate and share information but never an obligation. All materials are supplied.
The weekly workshop themes
Group rules and general introduction – Folder decoration
Relaxation – Painting to music like the artist Kandinsky
Wish Space – Cloud drawings in pastel
Patterns and rhythms – Seasonal nature drawings
Emotions in our body – Drawing and painting emotions with colour
Recap and looking at what have we’ve learnt – Use your favourite technique from the previous sessions.
Who is the facilitator?
My name is Sarah Thilo and I am a transpersonal art counsellor and a registered member of the British Association of Counselling Practitioners and possess a DBS certificate and full insurance coverage. I work closely with a supervisor to ensure that all groups and private client work adhere to BACP safeguarding guidelines.
Over many years I have run various art workshops and art clubs within local Schools. I was the Lead facilitator for five years with The Ashdown Hub a Charity that runs wellbeing groups for participant with mental, physical and special needs in the Ashdown Forest area. As an art counsellor I have worked in various local schools as a school counsellor and I have my own private practise. I have organized art exhibitions and competition events for groups such as Scouts, Brownies, local Churches, and Surrey Libraries. Teaching drawing at Tobias School of Art and therapy I also lecture on how to manage group therapeutic work.
REGISTER FOR WORKSHOPS:
Fees: £5 per session, with a commitment to the full 6-week block.
When & Where: Thursdays, 5-6pm, Sweet Chestnut Studio @ The Anderida Practice
Dates: Thursday 18th September - Thursday 23rd October 2025
To book a place, please complete the registration form below. Spaces are limited to ensure each participant receives individual support within the group setting.
Confidential Application Form:
1-to-1 ART COUNSELLING
AGE: 12–18
We also offer 1-to-1 sessions if you feel that would more fitting your teen.
These gentle, one-to-one sessions offer a safe and supportive space for young people to explore thoughts and emotions through creativity and conversation.
No artistic experience needed — just a willingness to explore and express. Sessions can help with:
• Exam stress & school pressure
• Anxiety, low mood & self-esteem
• Difficult life transitions
• A sense of feeling "too much" or "not enough"
Art counselling uses creative tools to help teens process feelings, reduce stress and build emotional resilience.
These sessions are part-funded through our teen mental health project. Spaces are limited — early booking advised.