Dr Nicola Mallowan
Dr Nicola Mallowan is a Chartered Psychologist and Senior Lecturer in Forensic Psychology, where she is the Programme Director for the MSc Applied Forensic Psychology programme. She is Group Lead of the Bucks New University Drug and Alcohol Research Group. As a practitioner, Nicola previously worked for the National Probation Substance Misuse Team, and as a Substance Misuse Recovery Worker for the charity organisation Turning Point.
“I believe women-only art therapy is essential because it offers a safe space for honest expression, especially for those who have experienced trauma. Free from judgment or social pressure, women can explore themes like identity, femininity, and motherhood in a supportive environment. Shared experiences foster connection, validation, and healing. These sessions empower women to reclaim their voice and often build lasting, trust-based communities beyond the therapy space”.
Katrina Heath
Katrina has had a lifelong interest in art, completing an Art Foundation in 1990 in High Wycombe and a BA (Hons) in Ceramics in 1994 at West Surrey College of Art and Design.
On leaving her undergraduate course, she worked hand painting kitchen and bathroom tiles for Decorum and Fired Earth.
Since changing direction in midlife to Forensic Psychology, she has combined her two interests and provided art therapy to clients in recovery from substance misuse and brain acquired injuries, and has seen firsthand the benefits of art and creativity to those with anxiety, past trauma, low self-esteem and loneliness.
When she has time, she still loves to paint and draw - with Conté pencils her weapon of choice!
Hiva Khoshandam
She recently graduated with a BSc in Psychology from Buckinghamshire New University. She is interested in mental health and creative approaches to wellbeing, such as the use of art in expressing and processing one’s emotions, improving self-esteem, and reducing distress. As the facilitator, Hiva will be supporting participants throughout their journey and using validated wellbeing measures to help monitor progress and ensure the programme’s positive impact.
Steph Tripolitaki
"I am a contemporary artist with a heavy focus on emotive work, healing and ideals that challenge and draw light on women and their place in society today. My aim or mission is an internal desire to create something outside of myself, something of purpose and significance, that connects with the viewer in a more meaningful way and work that heals and elevates. I draw inspiration from my own experiences in life and have a deep connection to women and their place in society today. My practise is very connected to shared personal experiences and I believe connection is ultimately why we are here. I use a lot of my own poetry, words and phrases I have heard in my life in my work and layer them on top of each other on the canvas.
Having come from a long line of strong women I feel that I must pave a path for the women of the next generation, for my daughter, like my ancestors did unknowingly for me. When I think about my grandmothers, and my ancestors both on my British and Greek sides, I am in awe of how amazing and brave they were and what they accomplished in their lifetime.
I would not be able to do what I do today without their bravery. I am able to use my voice today, I am able to express myself because of them and it makes me strive to do the same in my own way. I have this desire and drive to live as authentically as possible and continue to pave that path through my art and through healing."
Holly Mallowan
My background is rooted in art and education, with over two years of experience, teaching at a children’s art group. I am currently studying for a Fine Art degree from a London university, discovering the power of creativity during my own studies, achieving an A in A-Level Art. Since then, I have continued to explore the ways art can support both personal growth and emotional wellbeing.
For me, art has always been more than a practice, it is a language. A way to express thoughts and feelings that cannot always be spoken. Through creativity, we find mental relief, mindfulness, and a safe space to process life’s experiences. This belief lies at the heart of my work and inspires the supportive, nurturing environment I aim to create for others.
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