Play and Creative Arts therapy is not just for children!
When words alone are not enough, sometimes we need different ways to process and express how we feel. You can choose to talk or you can choose to do more creative activities (even if you don't think are the creative arty type). Play therapy offers a powerful medium for working with adults with complex trauma because play addresses areas of social, emotional, and cognitive development compromised from chronic interpersonal trauma exposure.
Part of my work is with a non-profit organisation that provides mental health care support after disclosure of sexual abuse.
I have worked with individuals with a variety of concerns including family and attachment issues, depression, anxiety, trauma, self harm, bipolar disorder, self-esteem issues, and grief. In my experience, mental health symptoms are only one of many considerations in the treatment process. When working together, other considerations should be taken into account and that include physical health, safety, living situation, social support, finances, spirituality, and overall sense of well being. I’m passionate about attachment, connection, play, creativity and stories as part of a healthy being. I work collaboratively with individual client to determine their needs and to provide the best care possible.
My special interest is in working with Trauma and Attachment issues. Unbeknown to us, many of the challenges we face as adults stemmed from trauma or attachment issues we experience in our childhood. This can shape how we behave, make decisions and relate to other people.
Whether as a child or as an adult, we all need someone we can talk or be with to who is non-judgemental, reflective and honest. Someone who makes you feel safe enough to talk and safe enough to make the changes that you need.
Going to therapy or even considering one can feel momentous and many people may feel nervous, worried or shy. This is ok. Rest assured that your session will be safe and confidential. I may not be your best buddy, but I will be your strongest ally. Your story matters and I will help you see through your difficult moments, help you process what may appear uncomfortable and challenging, and help you find clarity and plan for your days ahead independently.
Additional areas of focus: Addictions, LGBT, Relationship issues, Family conflicts, Grief, Eating disorders, Sleeping disorders, Anger management, Career difficulties, Depression, Coping with life changes, Coaching, Compassion fatigue, ADHD
Clinical approaches: Attachment-Based Therapy, Client-Centered Therapy, Trauma-Focused Therapy
BACP Therapist - Registered Member MBACP #382150
These quotes represent just a few of the many positive reviews that we have received for Malahayati (Mala) Holland. We don't pay anyone to provide their review and they are all made voluntarily. Some people's experience receiving therapy with BetterHelp might be different.
In the few session I've had with Mala she's given me great guidance to start working on some of my struggles. She's attentive, she's a really good and active listener and empathetic!
Written on May 12, 2024 after therapy with Malahayati (Mala) for 3 weeks on issues concerning stress, anxiety, family conflicts, eating disorders, sleeping disorders, self esteem, and adhd
I feel I'm in the best of hands every time we have a session! Looking forward to working with Mala as she is a God send in helping me rethink my ways of thinking and understanding how my previous life experiences is impacting my current ones.
Written on Jan 06, 2024 after therapy with Malahayati (Mala) for 1 year and 9 months on issues concerning depression, stress, anxiety, addictions, relationship issues, trauma and abuse, sleeping disorders, self esteem, career difficulties, and coping with life changes
A very thoughtful therapist who listens and is careful to your needs . She offers many ways to explore the difficulties you are dealing with and shows a real interest in helping you and teaching you how you can be a real actor in your healing journey.
Written on Oct 02, 2023 after therapy with Malahayati (Mala) for 3 weeks on issues concerning trauma and abuse
An excellent therapist that really listens and cares. Is able to use methods other than 'just' talking. Very real and authentic.
Written on Jan 20, 2023 after therapy with Malahayati (Mala) for 6 months on issues concerning self esteem
I would highly recommend Mala to anyone looking; she’s skilled, professional, warm and talented.
Written on Nov 29, 2022 after therapy with Malahayati (Mala) for 3 months on issues concerning depression, self esteem, career difficulties, and adhd
If you are a newbie to therapy like I was...it feels really safe to talk to Mala:) (and that applies to talking about emotional experieces to going into the session feeling like you have nothing to say). I also learned a lot of cool tools to use when I was for example feeling really overwhelmed etc... I also love the creative aspect she brings into it - but thats not a must, only if you want to:)
Written on Sep 23, 2022 after therapy with Malahayati (Mala) for 3 weeks on issues concerning depression, stress, anxiety, trauma and abuse, and self esteem