Drawing & Talking Therapeutic Initiative @Good Shepherd Primary & Nursery School

Dear Parents/Guardians,

We are delighted to be able to offer Drawing and Talking therapy to pupils in our school in Primary 3-Primary 7.

This is a gentle, non-intrusive therapeutic way of working with people who need a little help to support their wellbeing.

Mrs Harley is trained in delivering Drawing and Talking and will work with children on a one-to-one basis for one 30-minute session every week for twelve weeks.  For additional information click on this link: https://drawingandtalking.com/


What is Drawing and Talking?

In a world that often demands verbal articulation of our thoughts and feelings, many individuals—especially children—struggle to express their emotions through words alone. Whether due to trauma, anxiety, or simply the limitations of language, sometimes, words fail us. This is where Drawing and Talking Therapy can step in, offering a gentle yet powerful approach to emotional healing.

The Technique: A structured yet freeing process- Drawing and Talking Therapy follows a structured 12-week process. Each session, lasting 30 minutes, provides a safe space where the participant freely draws while engaging in gentle conversation with the practitioner. The practitioner does not interpret the drawings or impose meaning; instead, they encourage the individual to tell their own story but asking non-directed questions that expand the participants own exploration.  The focus remains on the process rather than the final product or strategy, fostering a sense of safety and self-discovery.

This method is particularly beneficial for children and young people who may find direct questioning intimidating, overwhelming or confrontational. By shifting the focus from verbal communication to creative expression, it allows emotions to surface naturally, often revealing feelings that may not have been consciously recognised. The outcomes: healing without pressure- the impact of Drawing and talking Therapy is profound. Many participants experience a reduction in anxiety, improved emotional regulation, and increased self-awareness.

Schools and mental health practitioners report that children engaging in this therapy show greater confidence, enhanced resilience, and improved relationships with peers and caregivers. More than just a drawing We have all at one time or another struggled to articulate our emotions, Drawing and Talking Therapy offers a vital reminder: words are not the only path to healing. Through simple images and being supported by someone we trust, a deeper conversation unfolds—one where emotions take shape, fears find release, and healing begins. In the quiet of a sketch, a story is told. Sometimes, that story is all we need.

We will be offering this provision after Christmas.  This will be offered to a small cohort of children initially and hope to extend this provision further.  This is open to children in Primary 3-Primary 7 only.  All information will be treated in the strictest of confidence. 

If you are interested in this for your child please complete the form here (this will close on Friday 5th December): https://forms.office.com/e/B2Y1728pNu 



Regards,

Mrs S. McCafferty & Mrs M. Harley