Well-being through Art Therapy
Hi, I’m Kat,
My focus is to guide you towards greater balance between mind, body, and soul through art therapy. I aim to create a safe and nurturing environment where the invisible can become visible, where individuals can discover tools to cope with life, and where people can stay connected to themselves and their well-being.
I welcome you regardless of race, ethnicity, religion, gender, or sexual orientation. Everyone deserves the opportunity to become their healthiest and happiest self, and I feel grateful to support others through the therapeutic power of art.
About Kathelijne Julia
I have always had a strong interest in psychology, so finding a field of study that combines both art and psychology felt like a perfect match for me. I continue to be inspired by what people can create and how art can reveal and express the inner world in ways that words sometimes cannot.
Originally from the Netherlands, I have called Vietnam home for the past 11 years. Previously based in Ho Chi Minh City, I am now based in Central Vietnam.
Licensed Art Therapist
My Bachelor of Art Therapy degree is from the University of Applied Sciences in Leiden. The four-year full-time studies were anthroposophically inspired, meaning medical knowledge is integrated with anthroposophical insights. To read more about anthroposophy and art therapy in general, take a look at the section ‘About Art Therapy’.
I work in several areas linked to wellbeing, safety and therapy.
- Art therapy workshops for teams focused on connection and nonverbal communication
- Consultations for non-profit organisations concerning therapeutic attitudes to guide teenagers with depression and anxiety.
- Safeguarding Lead and Liaison for International Schools, for children with learning disabilities
- Part of a network of mental health professionals
- Provide therapy and coaching to children with learning disabilities and other concerns
How Can Art Therapy Support Wellbeing and Balance?
When there is balance between our head (thinking), heart (feeling), and hands (acting), we are able to function in a healthier and more connected way — within ourselves, our relationships, and the world around us.
The ability to adapt and navigate life’s changes is an important part of wellbeing. Feeling supported in how we cope with challenges can help create greater balance, resilience, and personal growth.
In art therapy, we do not focus solely on a diagnosis or a problem; instead, we look at the individual as a whole. Together, client and therapist explore both challenges and strengths, while building resilience, inner strength, self-awareness, and self-compassion.
Materials used in Art Therapy
During art therapy, a variety of materials and techniques are explored. I offer river clay for modelling, watercolour and acrylic paints, as well as pastel crayons, wax crayons, colouring pencils, and charcoal for drawing. Within these materials, there are many different techniques and therapeutic art exercises that can support the individual process.
All techniques are guided and supported throughout the sessions. Some exercises are explored in a single session, while others are developed over multiple sessions as part of a longer therapeutic process. More information about the art therapy process is available in the ‘Process’. section.
Clay Modelling
River clay is a wonderful, versatile therapeutic medium that requires warmth, energy and strength. The kneading and modelling can even be an equivalent to physical labour, at the same time, it provides relaxation and excitement.
Drawing
Drawing is a versatile medium that engages the mind through techniques such as mandala drawing, shading, layering, form, perspective, and observational drawing, with different materials suited to each approach.
Painting
Painting connects to our feeling and emotions. Colours correspond with deeper layers of us. Watercolour, as the name suggests, is about finding a balance between paint and water. Acrylic paint is intense in colour and is great for expressive, (semi) abstract work.
Find out more
If you are considering Art Therapy and have more questions, or would just like to find out more, please check the Frequently Asked Questions Page
If you would like to set up a meeting feel free to contact me.