Maria Tanner Cohen

Maria is an Art Psychotherapist whose relationship with art making is not separate from her therapeutic identity, but central to it. Drawing on over 20 years of experience as a dedicated visual artist and creative writer, Maria's practice interweaves her in-depth understanding of the creative unconscious through a psycho- dynamic tapestry of psychology, psychotherapy, and neuroscience.

Taking a client- centred approach Maria responds with empathy and gentle curiosity to the unique presenting needs of each of each individual. Clients are held in a safe, supportive, and confidential therapeutic space, where they can explore their inner states through both image - making and reflective dialogue. This meaningful creative process supports clients with emotional processing, personal insight, integration and meaningful psychological change.

Client engagement is a key strength for Maria working  with adolescents, and adults experiencing anxiety, trauma, relationship difficulties, low self-esteem, bereavement and loss. Maria practices a neuro - affirmative approach that recognises the unique strengths, needs, and perspectives of neurodivergent individuals and people with intellectual disabilities.

 

Often the hands will solve a mystery that the intellect has struggled with in vain.”

— Carl Jung

 

Maria carried out clinical placement at Dungarvan Community Hospital and Dunabbey House, working with able elderly clients, as well as those dealing with dementia and intellectually disability. Maria also practiced as a trainee with Youthreach Co. Waterford, providing art psychotherapy to adolescents aged 13–19 experiencing personal, social and educational challenges. Maria has facilitated creative programmes to support cancer survivors at Youghal Cancer Support, also creatively supporting  young adults with autism and intellectual disabilities through Homestead community care service.

 In her work as a visual art curator, Maria developed the exhibition ‘It Is Not on Any Map; True Places Never Are’, presenting as part of the programme the visual art of long-term, elderly and intellectually disabled resident Johnny Wallace, in partnership with St. Raphael’s Art Department Co. Cork. The project was funded supported by the HSE Arts and Health Fund and Irish Arts Council Project award.

 

 

Fully insured *Registered Sole Trader *Tax compliant *Garda Vetted *Child First Compliant.

 

Maria Tanner, BA (Hons,) MA (Vis),MSc (First Class Honours).

Accredited Professional Art Psychotherapist - Irish Association of Creative Art Therapists (IACAT)

Phone: 087 2414955

Office hours ONLY

10 am – 12 am (Monday to Friday)

www.mariatannercohen.com