Modern life is complex, filled with problems, stress, and challenges. However, in the 21st century, it has become common to seek help from psychologists, psychotherapists, and to work on one’s mental health. Today, we explore art therapy as a popular and accessible way to restore mental wellbeing and find inner harmony. Notably, art therapy is becoming increasingly popular among the people of Leeds. Read more at leedska.com.
Art Therapy Helps Reduce Anxiety
More and more people in Leeds, particularly women, are turning to new methods for coping with stress, anxiety and depression. The number of art therapy programmes available in the city has grown by 30%. Leeds, with its rich cultural heritage and vibrant arts scene, has a well-developed infrastructure for art therapy practices.
Various psychological support centres, charities and community cultural spaces offer a wide range of sessions, from one-to-one therapy to group activities. The most popular approaches include painting, collage-making, clay modelling, music therapy, and movement-based art therapy.
Psychologists in Leeds emphasise that art therapy helps individuals better understand and express their emotions, lowers anxiety levels and provides a sense of control. Many participants report improved mood after just a few sessions.
In 2024, over 1,200 Leeds residents attended art therapy sessions. Around 70% were women aged 25 to 45, many of whom were dealing with life crises, postnatal depression, or anxiety disorders.
Art Therapy in Leeds: Key Venues
Art therapy also fosters new social connections in the city, helping to build communities based on shared interests. Organisers note that participants often continue meeting and engaging with each other beyond the therapy itself, strengthening their sense of support and belonging. Here are some of the main venues offering art therapy in Leeds:
- Art Therapy & Healing Leeds – Located in the Scott Hall area, this studio employs certified psychotherapists offering both individual and group art therapy sessions (painting, clay work, creative techniques). Known for its welcoming atmosphere and personalised approach.
- Therapy Leeds – A psychological studio in Chapeltown providing support through art therapy and modern therapeutic practices. The centre is accessible for people with disabilities and staffed by highly trained professionals.
- Leeds Drawing Club – An arts centre and club for adults offering regular creative workshops and group drawing sessions. A special emphasis is placed on a supportive, female-friendly environment that inspires creativity.
- Leeds City Psychology – Based in the city centre, this team of psychologists integrates art techniques into psychotherapy to help manage emotions and stress. Services are available for both children and adults.
- Woodhall Psychology, Leeds – This centre offers mental health counselling and makes active use of creative methods, including art therapy, in its work.
- Bowery Visual Arts – A visual arts hub in Headingley that combines a café and gallery with a wide range of workshops in painting, sculpture, collage and more. The centre is welcoming to people of all ages and social backgrounds.
- Leeds Counselling and Psychotherapy – A professional psychotherapist specialising in both individual and group therapy, with an emphasis on creative self-expression.
- Art Club with Lo & Vee – A creative space in Chapel Allerton organising art events and group workshops focused on self-healing for both women and teenagers.
We hope you’ve found this article informative and that you’ve learned something new about your city.