Anna-Louise Wrigley
ART PSYCHOTHERAPIST
HCPC Registration number: AS019366
Hello, my name is Anna!
I am an Art Psychotherapist, passionate about supporting children and young people to feel understood, connected and able to make sense of their experiences.
I trained at the Institute of Art and Therapy in Education in London, where I gained my Master’s degree in 2025.
My approach is integrative, trauma-informed and influenced by attachment theory, Polyvagal theory and an understanding of how our early experiences and relationships can shape the way we relate to ourselves, to others and to the world around us. I’m interested in looking beyond behaviour and remaining curious about what a young person may be communicating through it.
I have clinical experience across forensic, inpatient and NHS community services. This has given me a strong grounding in working with trauma, emotional regulation, attachment, relational difficulties, identity, anxiety, self-esteem and experiences that can sometimes present as distress or challenging behaviour.
As an Art Psychotherapist, I value creativity as another language, particularly when experiences or emotions are difficult to put into words. My work can therefore move naturally between talking, creativity, play, metaphor, sensory experiences and body-based awareness to support young people in processing what is happening internally.
The Words First value that resonates most with me is the emphasis on collaboration. I believe that when professionals bring different perspectives together, we can develop a much richer understanding of the whole child.
When I’m not working, I’m a mum of two and love spending time with my family. You’ll often find me playing touch rugby, practising yoga or getting outdoors. Being active, creative and connected to others are all important parts of my own wellbeing too.
If you asked my friends to describe me, they would say I’m caring and fun, with a splash of humour!
