I am a trained art therapist (MA) offering counseling in English, online or in person. I support my clients through a combination of counseling, art therapy, somatic work, and education on the nervous system.
I am originally from the US and proud to come from a mixed Black and Indigenous American background. So far, I have worked and studied in the US, UK, Australia, Sweden, and now Germany! I know what it is like to be on the move and all the stress, loneliness, and fear that can come with that, so anyone who has experienced a similar way of life (whether by choice or by conflict) is especially welcome. If you would like to see if we are a good fit, you can book a consultation using the calendar or by messaging me on here or at: Marlayna@kolibriarttherapy.com
How I Work: Working on your well being should be a journey that happens through empathy and understanding. This is a personal process, so I always work in a person-centered way (this means that art-making is not required in our sessions). It is important to note that I work in a non-pathologizing way, so although I can help support you if you have a diagnosis, I work with you as a whole individual, which goes far beyond any label or diagnosis.
Why Art? Finding the right words of expression is not always easy; creative engagement with the arts provides the opportunity to express, grow, and explore yourself on a deeper subconscious level, where words alone are not always adequate. In fact, by engaging in art-making within a safe therapeutic relationship, you can create neural pathways that will help you to connect with yourself and others, it can even help you achieve healthier behaviors!
I work with all but I have come to specialize in: Working with people who go through the complex experiences of othering (whether that is from neurodivergence, migration, racism, sexism, or sexuality).
Working with those who are going through a spiritual crisis, which can often be connected with past traumas, life transitions, or the aforementioned experiences of othering. It is important to note that my work in supporting you through your spiritual crisis is not religion based and tends to focus more on your individuality and your connection with yourself.
Person-centered Narrative Somatic Art Therapy/counseling For expats & students
Private Practice: Since 2023 Art Therapist Trainee at Be Centre, Child Therapy Clinic: 2023-2024 Art Therapist Trainee at Stride Mental Health Clinic: 2023 Behavioural Therapist for Self-harming Children: 2022-2023 Support Worker: 2020-2023 Preschool Teacher: 2017-2020
Member of the European Federation of Art Therapy: Since 2024 Master of Art Therapy & Counseling from Western Sydney University Bachelor of Arts - Fine Arts & Education from Columbia College Chicago Australian Childhood Foundation Safeguarding Training, 2023 Working with Aboriginal & Torres Strait Islander Families -Emerging Minds, 2023 Family & Domestic Violence & Child-Aware Practice -Emerging Minds, 2023 Engaging Children: Shrinking Problems -Emerging Minds, 2023 Supporting Children Who Have Experienced Trauma -Emerging Minds, 2023 Special Playtime: Parent-Child Relationships -Be Centre, 2023 Reducing Suicide Risk in Young Children -Be Centre, 2023