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<h4>Hello</h4>
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<p>I am Amanda Woodford, arts therapist, artist, researcher and practice supervisor from Holding Space Therapeutic Arts Studio. My art-studio style space is located in Dunedin, New Zealand. From my studio I offer: arts therapy sessions, facilitation of community arts groups and projects, an arts-based approach to research and arts-based practice supervision. I also have the option to work remotely (via the internet) for those who are unable to travel to me. There is also the possibility to look at alternative venues and the likes of 'out and about' creative programs. </p>
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<p>I work with people of all ages. In therapy and community, this might be carers with bubs, children, youth, adults through to elders. In professional practice, this may be academics or fellow health care professionals. As a <a rel="noreferrer noopener" aria-label="registered Creative Arts Therapist (opens in a new tab)" href="http://www.anzacata.org" target="_blank">registered Creative Arts Therapist</a> (AThR), I am able to offer counselling services through the <a href="http://workandincome.govt.nz/">WINZ Disability Allowance</a>. I have many years experience working alongside those who live with a disability or the impact of events or health related matters which are on-going. </p>
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<h4>About my approach</h4>
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<p>An arts-based approach isn't just about making artworks (although it can be). It is an alternative way to look experiences using more than just words alone. You may notice a little line under the 's' in my logo. This line emphasises the arts plural within my approach. I welcome the use of all creative modalities, materials and tools. This might include the visual, textile and literary arts, movement and dance, voice and music, small figurines and puppets. I embrace a sense of play –fun or serious. It is not about using all of these but knowing that they are there as another way to communicate. As the saying goes, one size does not fit all and neither does ever creative material – it is good to have choice.</p>
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<p>I use <a rel="noreferrer noopener" href="https://miecat.edu.au/the-miecat-institute/" target="_blank">MIECAT's form of Inquiry,</a> born out of a rich patchwork of different therapeutic, philosophical and research approaches. As a MIECAT practitioner, I am a creative companion, who travels alongside another (an inquirer) in inquiry. The inquirer is the expert of their experience! I have MIECAT's form of Inquiry, a therapeutic structure, to support the process. I work emergently – there is no set plan  – nor do I interpret, analyse, diagnosis or judge. We make sense together using the arts and a therapeutic approach. </p>
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<p>Please have a look around and don't hesitate to<a href="http://www.holdingspacestudio.co.nz/testing/testing/?page_id=68"> contact me</a> with any questions or feedback. I consider all personal referrals, as well as those from health care and community wellbeing agencies. <br><br>Warmly<br>Amanda Woodford (AThR)</p>
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