My approach
The Anka, the Turkish name for the phoenix, is a powerful symbol of renewal and transformation that exists in the collective memory of many cultures. This mythical bird, known for rising from its ashes, represents the strength to overcome challenges and embrace new beginnings. At Anka Art Therapy, we draw on this timeless, shared symbol of resilience to help guide you through your own personal healing and growth. My work is guided by diversity, equity, and inclusion. I honor how your culture, gender, background, and social context shape who you are, and I support you in finding your own voice and strength.
Experiential, image-based, and emotion-focused art therapy with integrative tools:
art therapy and art-based exploration (imagery, drawing, symbolic expression…)
art-based somatic awareness & self-regulation
experiential parts work (IFS-inspired)
Gestalt-informed dialogues (chairwork, guided fantasy, dreamwork)
Jungian-based approaches (active imagination, shadow work…)
CBT-based approaches (motivational interviewing, emotion regulation and distress tolerance skills…)
trauma-sensitive pacing
culturally-relevant practices
psychoeducation
Art therapy
Art therapy helps you gain deeper insights, explore your inner world, and express complex emotions in a safe environment. It facilitates access and process emotions and experiences that may be challenging to articulate with words alone.
We utilize various visual art materials and creative techniques, such as drawing, sculpting, collage, photos etc. Each materials and techniques have specific therapeutic benefits by promoting sensory exploration, emotional expression, and mindfulness through hands-on activities and creativity. They provide valuable chances for self-discovery and personal growth in the supportive environment of art therapy.
You don't need prior art experience or skills to benefit from art therapy; instead, you'll discover new ways of being and behaving, you’ll find impactful ways of self-expression and personal exploration as our therapeutic journey unfolds.
Learn more about art therapy and how it works here.
Integrative therapy
I practice art therapy in a trauma-sensitive way integrating experiential techniques based on attachment-focused approaches, parts work (like inner child and shadow works), and sensorimotor therapy. I tailor my therapy sessions by combining the strengths of these modalities to meet my clients' needs and goals. I also use brainspotting at times in combination with art therapy to support clients in healing emotional wounds.
Trauma-informed
The impact of recent life situations can be extremely overwhelming especially if you have an unresolved trauma or grief. I specialize in recognizing and addressing complex and developmental trauma and grief, providing safety, trust, and empowerment. In a trauma-informed approach, we start from where you are—recognizing your unique experiences and ensuring you feel safe and supported throughout the process. I'll encourage you to express what you're feeling in that moment without any pressure to create something "perfect." This allows you to connect with your emotions gently and at your own pace.
Culturally-sensitive
I prioritize understanding your cultural background, adapting therapeutic techniques to suit your preferences, and exploring culturally relevant symbols and art forms that resonate with you. This approach fosters authentic self-expression, connection to your heritage, and addresses any cultural stigma or taboos surrounding mental health openly. Together, we set goals aligned with your values, empowering you to achieve personal growth and well-being in a supportive space that enhances your mental health and resilience.
Brainspotting
I often utilize brainspotting therapy to help clients process and overcome negative emotions, burnout, depression, and anxiety. This method also provides some relief from psychosomatic symptoms, offering a focused approach to healing and recovery. I use it with or without art therapy. More on brainspotting here.