Eleni Petridou Bouriti
Art Psychotherapist
Eleni Petridou Bouriti holds a Master’s degree in Art Psychotherapy (MSc Art Psychotherapy) from Queen Margaret University in Edinburgh. She obtained a degree and postgraduate studies in Fine Arts & Arts Education (BA & Integrated MA Fine Arts – Arts Education) from the Athens School of Fine Arts.
She is a registered member of the board of directors at the Association of Visual Therapists and Friends of Cyprus (CARTA) and the European Federation of Art Therapy (EFAT), where she follows the rules and code of ethics of the profession.
Currently, she works in a rehabilitation and wellness unit (St. Nectarios of Nicosia) and focuses on cases of neurodegenerative diseases (Alzheimer’s/dementia forms). Additionally, she provides assessments and therapeutic sessions for individuals with neurodevelopmental disorders privately, in day centers, and in organizations.
She has worked as an external associate at the “Resilient Lives” center, School for the Blind, Ministry of Education and Sports, Deputy Ministry of Culture, mainly conducting group art therapy sessions and discussions in multi-thematic groups aiming to support adolescents and young adults using multisensory tools.
Furthermore, she organises festivals, interventions, and psychoeducational/research programs for cultural spaces (Limassol Theater Museum | Leventis Gallery, Leventis Municipal Museum of Nicosia, State Gallery of Contemporary Art) with the aim of increasing prevention-awareness on mental health issues.
As part of her continuous professional development, she has participated in European conferences on Art Psychotherapy and postgraduate seminars on trauma, child and adult protection “Training in child and adult protection”, care and behavior for people with dementia, as well as Benenzon music therapy levels 1-3.
Regarding her previous clinical practice abroad, she worked in both educational and clinical environments in Scotland, primarily with adults facing serious mental disorders (Royal Edinburgh Hospital), designed and implemented educational programs for prisoners, and individuals with special needs.
Specialization
Art Psychotherapy
What is art psychotherapy?
Art Psychotherapy is a psychosocial profession in the field of mental health.
It is not a diagnostic tool, but rather a means through which the patient communicates, analyzes conflicts, and manages difficult emotions.
Through the creative process and the therapeutic relationship, people can develop their interpersonal relationships, social skills, and improve their self-image, encouraging self-awareness and development.
*Art Psychotherapy is not a recreational activity or an art class, although it can be enjoyable at times.
Previous experience or talent in art is not required. It can be used as a complementary psychotherapy in combination with other therapies.
Who is art psychotherapy for?
Art Psychotherapy can be used for the psychological support of children, adolescents, adults, and the elderly. Depending on the patient’s needs, art psychotherapy can be utilized individually, with couples, in groups, or with families (for example, with the members of a family).
Art Psychotherapy follows the principles of holistic, individualized intervention and is adapted to the level and needs of all individuals, regardless of their abilities, diagnosis, or the skills they may possess, such as:
- Neurodevelopmental disorders
- Neurodegenerative diseases
- Trauma
- Low self-esteem or lack of self-confidence
- Difficulties in verbal expression/communication
- Discharge
Specialisation Benefits
- Art therapists encourage clients to utilize their creativity to improve self-esteem and communication skills, promoting personal growth.
- They facilitate the development of coping mechanisms and stress management techniques through artistic activities, enhancing emotional resilience and well-being.
Certified art psychotherapists are mental health professionals and are required to obtain an undergraduate degree in the field of art or general social/humanitarian studies (psychology, anthropology, education) and then, for their specialization, attend an intensive two-year/three-year postgraduate program that includes courses in psychology, theoretical art courses, clinical practice, clinical and academic supervision, as well as personal psychotherapy.
Certified art therapists in Cyprus: https://www.carta-ngo.org/eikastikoitherapeutes/
Previous collaborations can be seen at: https://elenipetridou.wixsite.com/elenipetridou/artist-in-residense
