About me, Louise Perry. IFS & Art Psychotherapist

About me

A straight-talking, creative, and down-to-earth therapist

I didn’t start my career as a therapist—I spent years working in tech, advertising, and design before retraining as an Integrative Arts Psychotherapist. That means I understand the pressures of real life—balancing work, family, and everything in between. Having grown up in South London in a dysfunctional family and raising my daughter on my own, I also know what it’s like to navigate tough times and big challenges.

At my core, I’m kind, thoughtful, and curious—but I’m also straight-talking and direct when needed. I believe therapy isn’t just about listening; sometimes, it’s about gently challenging patterns and perspectives to help you move forward.

How I work

I bring a creative and flexible approach to therapy. Talking is great, but sometimes words don’t cut it—so I incorporate art, imagery, and creative techniques where they might help. You don’t need to be "good at art"—it’s just another way to express yourself and make sense of things. But if you prefer a traditional talking therapy approach, that works too.

Alongside art therapy, I also work with Internal Family Systems (IFS), a powerful way of understanding and working with different "parts" of yourself. IFS can help untangle inner conflicts, heal old wounds, and create more balance and self-compassion. When combined with art therapy, it allows for even deeper exploration and transformation.

Passionate about educating & demystifying art therapy

Art therapy is incredibly powerful, and yet it’s widely misunderstood. I’m passionate about educating people and organisations about what it really is, demystifying it, and giving it the recognition it deserves. I firmly believe it should be valued just as highly as other types of therapy, and I want to help people understand why it works, how it works, and who it can help.

I also believe that everyone is creative—even if they don’t think they are. Creativity isn’t about being good at drawing or painting; it’s about expression, exploration, and finding new ways to process emotions. I often feel like a midwife to people’s creative lives, helping them reconnect with a part of themselves they may have forgotten or never fully explored.

Who I work with

I have experience working in private practice, the NHS, community-based charities, and addiction treatment. I spent four years working in an addiction treatment centre in Harley Street, so I have a deep understanding of addiction, recovery, and the complexities of long-term sobriety. I’ve also been in 12-step recovery for 24 years, so I understand the real-life challenges of addiction and behavioural patterns—not just from a professional perspective, but from lived experience.

Qualifications & professional memberships

MA Communication Design (Central St Martins)
MA Integrative Arts Psychotherapy (IATE, London)
Accredited by HCPC, UKCP, BAAT
Currently working towards IFS accreditation

Finding the right therapist

Therapy is personal—it’s about connection and trust. If I seem like someone you’d feel comfortable working with, let’s have a quick chat. We can talk through what you need and see if it feels like the right fit.

If you're curious, read some of my testimonials or get in touch—I’d love to hear from you.