DONNA LOIOLA
Psychotherapy - Creative Wellbeing - Art.
Who I am….
Donna is my name and I am — a Psychotherapist, Clinical Supervisor, and Artist, with over thirty years spent doing work I still find genuinely meaningful.
For many years, I have sat with people through the parts of life that are hardest to sit with — loss, depression, relationship issues, change and the quiet unravelling that sometimes happens before things get better. Alongside my clinical work, I have always engaged in creative expression. A childhood in the Caribbean and drive for creative expression was what made me decide to specialise as an Arts Psychotherapist. I truly believe that everyone is creative in their own way and this creative energy moves us all towards health and wellbeing. Over many years I witnessed and understood the healing power of the Arts and it is very much woven through my clinical practice and my own personal journey.
My work lives in two places — literally and psychologically. Split between London and Portugal's Silver Coast, I hold two arms of practice that have always felt like one thing wearing two hats: Psychotherapy and Clinical Supervision on one side, and creative wellbeing on the other. Studio Loiola offers short courses and guided sessions, where art-making becomes a way back to yourself — no experience or talent required.
What I do…
If you are here looking for Therapy, you will find an integrative approach shaped by three decades of clinical experience. I offer a space to be heard and witnessed without a fixed formula for what healing has to look like.
If you are here as a fellow practitioner seeking Supervision, you will find someone who takes that role seriously. I offer a space to think clinically, compassionately and creatively. You will experience gentle challenge and will be supported in the work you are doing with others.
And if you are here for creative wellbeing, you will find something a little different in tone but not in spirit. I have designed and created short, guided sessions in painting, collage, and mark-making, built on the belief that creativity isn't just a talent some people have and others don't. It is a way of processing, playing, and returning to yourself that is available to absolutely everyone.
This page matters because…
I built this site to hold all of that honestly, in one place, rather than presenting a version of myself that is split into pieces depending on who is looking. The Therapist and the Artist aren't in competition — they have always informed each other. This page exists so you can see the whole picture, and choose the door that is actually right for you. I trust that you will know whether that is a therapy room, a supervision session, or an hour with a paintbrush and no plan.
I welcome you here, no matter what you are looking for.
It is my intention to help others connect and create!
“Play is how the soul breathes”
Hello and Welcome to my space!
I am Donna, a Psychotherapist and an Artist offering a safe space online where you can connect, explore creative expression and heal through art making and play.
If this sounds appealing or remotely interesting then read on. I have tried to answer some of the questions that come my way but if there is anything you want clarification on then please contact me yourself.