Tēnā koe, my name is Briedi McCrostie and I am a professionally registered Clinical Arts Therapist working in Ōtautahi, Christchurch.
I am passionate about using creativity in its many forms to enhance a sense of wellness. My therapeutic philosophy is holistic and person-centred which means my role is to hold therapeutic sessions that will meet the needs of a client within a safe, gentle and creative environment.
My practice offers short to long-term support focused on nourishing a sense of well-being through relationship building, resourcing and processing. It is my hope that with support a client can safely connect with their own body and story in a way that allows growth, healing and connection with self and others.
I employ a trauma informed approach to therapeutic processing which harnesses the arts to facilitate evidence-based and developmentally sensitive therapeutic processes informed by attachment theory, trauma research, humanism and the emerging polyvagal and nervous system theory. Within a session, clients are invited to draw from a variety of modalities including art making, movement, body awareness, and mindfulness. Alongside conversation, these modalities aim to strengthen attachments and emotional regulation, process experiences, and nurture a sustainable sense of self.
I have gained rich experience facilitating both individual and group therapy in different social, cultural and creative environments. This includes clinical placements within schools, community organisations, frontline services and the Department of Corrections. In addition, I have significant experience working creatively in Aboriginal communities in North-Western Australia.
I navigate life with a strong sense of empathy and curiosity. In addition to establishing my private therapeutic practice I am committed to furthering my learning, connecting with socially engaged agencies, and supporting the education of emerging therapists through a contract role with Whitecliffe University. I enjoy cooking for family and friends, creative activities, reading, walking in the hills, gardening and visiting galleries.
I look forward to working with and supporting you or your child.
To get in touch please contact me at briedi@artasconversation.com or visit www.artasconversation.com
Qualifications Masters of Arts in Creative Arts Therapy (Clinical) First Class Honours, Whitecliffe College of Arts Postgraduate Diploma in Creative Arts Therapy First Class Honours, Whitecliffe College of Arts Mindful Somatic Approaches to Trauma Therapy with Dr Paris Williams
Bachelor of Design First Class Honours, Massey University Wellington
Professional Membership Full professional registration with Australia, New Zealand and Asia Creative Arts Therapy Association (ANZACATA)