Dr Michelle Phillips

Art Psychotherapist

Dr Michelle Phillips is a HCPC Registered Art Psychotherapist. Michelle specialises in anxiety, attachment, and trauma (including PTSD). She has experience working therapeutically in schools, within the NHS and the charity sector. Through the creative and nurturing medium of art, Michelle enables clients to engage with their senses and offers them the opportunity to use materials to reconnect their mind and body. Art materials help individuals discharge difficult feelings as well as help them explore deep emotions. Michelle offers a range of art materials but is guided by the client and can offer more directive work when necessary. Michelle also has experience of delivering psychoeducation to both clients and family members were necessary.

Specialism

Adoption and Fostering, Adult Therapy, Child Therapy

Locations Covered

Cornwall, Devon

As you may be aware, on the 14th April 2025 the Adoption and Special Guardianship Support Fund (ASGSF) announced changes to the Fair Access limit with a reduction of funding to £3000 and the discontinuation of the separate Fair Access Limit for specialist assessments.

We are currently working really hard to amend quotes for ongoing therapy work to fit within the new Fair Access Limit and working closely with Adopt South West and other local RAAs. We are also working closely with other specialist adoption support providers and therapeutic organisations including DDP connects and Theraplay UK to explore how we can continue to deliver specialist therapies within this limit.

If you are waiting for a new package of therapy please look out for correspondence from ASW or your regional adoption support agency, as they will need to regain your consent for the amended therapy contract.

If you are concerned about the impact of the delay on your family or have questions about the therapy or assessment you are waiting for please get in touch with Ellen or Jen and we will do our best to support you.

We will be contributing to a wider response to this and the following is a link to a petition requesting government action – Petition · Action Against ASGSF Changes (Adoption and Special Guardianship Support Fund) – United Kingdom · Change.org