Who I am: My name is Ella Deeks. I’ve worked with young people for over 16 years. I have a BA Honours degree in performing arts and music. I was a primary school teacher before completing a diploma in child and adolescent psychotherapeutic counselling. I have been practising as an art and play therapist for 2.5 years. Before this I worked in PRUs, primary and secondary schools, private nurseries, youth groups and as a vocal coach and counsellor at Camp America. I feel that this experience has given me a sense of the creativity, compassion and empathy required for work with young people .
My core belief is that art, play and self-expression are powerful ways to address issues experienced by many children and young people. My therapeutic approach is always client centred and led by the client, adapting to each individuals needs. I guide everyone I work with empathy, sensitivity and show them ways in which to honour, express and process any emotion that they are feeling in a safe, contained way. Alongside creativity I strongly believe that we all need connection with the world to help us feel that we belong, feel worthy and that we have purpose.
My intention: To create a safe, therapeutic group for young people with SEND ages 18-25 taking place once every 2 weeks. The aim of the group will be for young people with SEND and/or learning difficulties to connect with people who have had similar life experiences to them and build new relationships. I will create a space where they can connect, be playful and create together.
This group will aim for young people to not only know others better but get to know themselves better too. We will explore who we are individually as well as a group. I intend to give them skills in building resilience, confidence and self-esteem.
I feel that using the arts and play are a great way for all people to relax and find a state of calm and safety in a world that can often feel unsafe and chaotic. I am aware, sadly, that there are not enough opportunities for people from this demographic to be part of a therapeutic process in this type of environment. I know that life can be extremely hard when you are lonely and that connection with others plays a vital role in establishing a sense of belonging that can lead to an improved sense of well-being. Therefore I would like to create a fortnightly group for people to make friends and create with me.
I aim to make this service free to all participants and, alongside the group work, A Balanced life in Hackney Wick will offer low-cost therapy for clients and their families.