About Me
My name is Hao Xin, a qualified Art Psychotherapist registered with the Health and Care Professions Council (HCPC) in the United Kingdom and a member of the British Association of Art Therapists (BAAT).
HCPC registration number: AS 17026
I have a MA in Art Psychotherapy from the University of Roehampton, London. In London, I have worked with primary school children who experienced bereavement, anxiety, self-esteem and friendship issues using art and play. I have also carried out individual and group therapy for older adults with dementia using museum collections as a way of facilitating reminiscence.
Prior to becoming an art therapist, I have worked in a different capacity with various groups in Malaysia. This includes include children and adolescents with special learning needs (e.g., children with autism and speech delay), children in marginalised communities, and refugee women.
My art psychotherapy practice supports different groups of people who experience difficult emotions, including but not limited to:
- Children with autism
- Primary school children who experience self-esteem issues, anxiety, bereavement, anger etc
- Adolescents exploring identity, emotional regulation, self-care, etc
- Refugee children to have a space to connect and express themselves during the COVID-19 pandemic
- Adults
- Older adults
My Approach
My work is based on a psychodynamic approach informed by Jungian psychoanalytic psychology. I believe our past experiences shape our personality, influence how we feel and think in everyday life. I work with the symbolic meanings of the images and process, as well as your relationship with them. Other theories such as attachment, object-relations and trauma will also be guiding my therapeutic understanding of the people whom I work with.
My approach is client-centered and mostly non-directive. Sometimes, I would suggest different art materials or activities to support you in telling your stories. I believe that every individual has the innate capability to move towards personal growth if they are the opportunity. Thus, I strive to create an empowering space that can facilitate personal growth and healing.
I engage in supervision and training continuously as part of my professional development in order to maintain the quality of my professional service.