Art therapy for ageing well,
through art we find new ways to tell.
If you or someone you care for is an older adult in Edinburgh facing dementia, illness, grief, retirement or other life changes, you’re not alone. I offer art therapy for older adults and carers through one-to-one sessions at Creative Arts Therapies Space (CATS) and by working with organisations across the Lothians.
Hi, I’m Joey.
I am an Art Psychotherapist, born and raised in Hong Kong and now based in Edinburgh. At Creative Arts Therapies Space (CATS), I offer one-to-one art therapy, and I also work freelance with organisations supporting older adults and carers through life changes with warmth, creativity, and care.
My approach is relational, grounded in psychodynamic thinking, and value-led, informed by Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT).
My clinical experience includes working with trauma, disability, ageing, and bereavement. In the past, I worked in the NHS with individuals living with acquired brain injury. I currently work alongside older adults and carers in the Gypsy/Traveller community, and have also volunteered with Marie Curie in palliative care.
Across these different settings, I have come to believe that whether we talk, make art, or simply sit together in quietness, there can still be space for comfort, meaning, and hope.
Working Together
You are in control,
it’s your space.
One-to-one therapy
If you’re looking for 1:1 support, I offer art therapy through CATS, a quiet and welcoming studio based in Leith. Working through CATS means your therapy is held within a supportive organisation, under professional guidance and regulation.
Freelance art therapy for organisations
I offer art therapy on a freelance basis to organisations such as care homes, charities and community groups. This can include one-off sessions, short-term projects or ongoing work, either in small groups or one-to-one.
At Creative Arts Therapies Space
Across Edinburgh and the Lothians
Sessions are shaped by the people who take part. There is no right or wrong way to be. I always welcome conversations about how we can tailor the work to meet your needs.
Sessions are calm, confidential and supportive, and available in English, Cantonese and Mandarin.
I currently offer art therapy in two main ways:
The Space
Take a look inside the therapy room at CATS, a warm and welcoming place for in-person sessions.
What others say
What others have shared about working with me, to help you get a sense of my approach and how I support clients.
Joey is a wonderfully patient and caring listener, who accepts clients without judgement and holds space for them to grow.
John Wright (Art Psychotherapist)
Joey is definitely one of the most thoughtful, genuine and creative art therapists I've ever known and I truly value the way she has supported my growth both personally and professionally.
Fatemeh Sangi (Art Psychotherapist)
Joey allowed herself to experience her client work fully, with honesty and integrity. She was methodical and sensitive in her approach and brought both difficult and at times intense case studies again, with a willingness to explore her growing edge and learning with sensitivity and care.
Lorraine Clark (Art Psychotherapist)
So far the service has been great! Smooth booking, clear communication, Joey listens with patience and offers supportive guidance during the sessions. Thank you, Joey!
Client
Joey's sessions broke down the barrier where I felt like art wasn't for someone like me. They brought me a sense of peace I never had before.
Client
Joey really knows her stuff. I felt listened to and that I finally found someone I could trust.
Client
Frequently Asked Questions
What is art therapy?
Art therapy is a supportive and creative process that supports emotional wellbeing. It offers older adults and carers a safe space to express feelings, explore memories and connect through creativity. You do not need to be “good” at art. It's about expression, not skill.
Who can benefit from it?
Art therapy can support older adults and their carers, especially when facing life changes such as dementia, grief, illness, or retirement. It offers comfort, connection, and strength during challenging times.
Do I need art skills?
No art experience is required. Art therapy focuses on expression and connection, not making “good” art. Many people find it helpful simply to create, share, or reflect in a safe and supportive space.
How can I access sessions?
One-to-one sessions take place in person at the Creative Arts Therapies Space in Edinburgh. I also work with organisations across the Lothians to offer group or individual art therapy within their settings. Sessions are available in English, Cantonese and Mandarin.
What can I expect?
One-to-one sessions are usually 60 minutes and follow your pace. You might choose to talk, use creative materials or simply take time to be.
Group sessions vary depending on the focus and the size of the group. Some are more directive, with prompts or themes to guide the process. Others are non-directive, where participants decide in the moment how they’d like to take part. I always shape the sessions around the needs of those involved. If you're interested in group work, feel free to get in touch to chat about what could work well for your setting.
How do I get in touch?
You're welcome to book a free 15-minute phone call if you're considering one-to-one therapy. This is a chance to ask questions, talk through what you're looking for and see if it feels like a good fit.
If you're part of an organisation and would like to explore working together, I’m happy to arrange a longer conversation to discuss your setting, the people you support and what might be possible.
You can get in touch through the contact form below, or reach out by email, text or phone. I’ll get back to you within 24 hours.
Let's Talk
If you or someone you care for would like to explore one-to-one art therapy, I offer a free 15-minute chat. This is a chance for us to get to know each other, talk about what you're looking for and see if we’re a good fit. If I’m not the right person for you, I can help you find someone who is.
If you're part of an organisation and would like to explore working together, I’d be happy to arrange a longer conversation to discuss your setting and what kind of support might be helpful.
I’ll reply within 24 hours. You can use the form below or get in touch by email, phone or text.
