About
Shakira Cutting
Welcome to my practice! I'm a registered Dance Movement Psychotherapist based in Berkshire and Hampshire, UK.
My expertise lies in child development, specialising in developmental trauma, attachment difficulties, and additional complex needs. I bring extensive experience in working with individuals diagnosed with Autism Spectrum Disorder/Condition and/or learning difficulties. I also work with children, adolescents, and adults facing one or multiple mental health conditions or needs.
I provide a safe and supported environment for clients to be seen and heard, to give the client a voice. My therapeutic approach is relational and integrative, with influences from Humanistic and Gestalt perspectives.
My flexible approach is unique as it supports the mind and body.
Within the sessions offered, I can help to explore new and unconscious themes, feelings, and patterns. If required, I can use interventions to support the therapy sessions such as music, props, fabric, art materials, and play objects. The client can communicate through verbal/vocal exchange or non-verbal or movement communication. I offer individual and group therapy sessions, which can explore ways to self-care and self-regulate.
Experience
Personal and Professional Experience
During my undergraduate studies, my curiosity was piqued by the potential of movement and the arts to enhance well-being. Intrigued, I delved into community projects focused on movement for individuals dealing with Parkinson's and dementia. My research honed in on dance and dementia, exploring how the combination of movement, dance, and music could positively impact the well-being of those with dementia. These experiences inspired me to broaden my scope to the wider community.
This journey led me to work in a Special Educational Needs (SEN) school, where I supported children with learning difficulties and autism. I was fascinated by how movement could foster social and emotional well-being in children, providing alternative avenues for communication. This passion drove me to pursue a Master's Degree in Dance Movement Psychotherapy (DMP).
In my DMP sessions, I've worked with diverse client groups, from individuals with schizophrenia and complex mental health issues to young people facing profound learning difficulties, autism, and social, emotional, and mental health needs. I've also conducted research on using DMP to cultivate resilience in childhood, emphasising the significance of early intervention and the powerful combination of arts and psychotherapy in promoting children's well-being.
Currently, I have the privilege of working with various client groups across private, charity, and educational sectors. Together, we explore the transformative potential of movement and the arts in enhancing overall well-being.
Learning Difficulties
Mental Health/Disorders
Schizophrenia
Personality Disorders
Limited Mobility
Eating Disorders
Dementia
Parkinson's
Addiction
Trauma
OCD
Carers
Parent & Child
Children
Adolescents
Young People
Adults & Elderly
Anxiety
Depression
Panic Attacks
Relationships
Attachments
Eating Disorders
Self-Confidence
Body Image
Self-Esteem
Communication
Feelings
Stress
Anger
Abuse
Loss and Grief
Self Harm
Self-care and Regulation