I first met Tom at a conference and almost walked past but was strangely drawn to the pots of Play Doh. The first thing he asked was what was going on for me today and where I was feeling it.
I was intrigued but suspicious. I attended one of his workshops and again was reserved and avoidant. Every time he saw me after then he would always ask what was going on and where I was feeling it? Again I would chatter on avoiding this idea. I then employed him to deliver some art and music projects and saw how quickly he gained connections with the people I worked with - how did he do this?
He sat alongside them and was interested in them. He started from where they were that day and they responded by opening up. I carried on meeting Tom either at conferences, just for a catchup in a cafe or even at a piano. Again he would start from where I was whereas I was in my own bubble avoiding . . . After changing my career I suddenly realised what he had done with these people - he got them to stop, to pause and to focus and I am now reminded of this daily as I work with vulnerable people.
He always got me to focus on what was important that day at that time. Where did this come from ? From his ability not to worry about what had gone on before nor what they wanted to do but what mattered there and then.
This connection was vital and I have learnt so much over the 15 years I’ve known Tom for.
Gina Freeman
I found both the group and individual sessions deeply nourishing. Tom is a very intuitive and respectful practitioner. With his guidance, using these playful prompts and activities, it felt possible and safe to explore what was showing up. For me, these techniques helped reveal what needed tending to and have had a lasting impact on my ability to tune in to myself.
Mags
Listening through the body with art sessions had a big impact on me at a rocky time in my life.
I was looking for something playful and nourishing and I was intrigued by the mix of listening to the body and art…but didn’t know what to expect…
The sessions often started with a body scan - tuning in and then turning towards the page.
I remember a lot of fun and lightness and play with the drawing/clay and then moments of profound insight and shift.
Drawing/ mark making in a group brought another layer of fun and surprise – reflection and insight – I think now when I look back on it – it was a bit like improvising music or movement in a group but with colour!
Tom facilitates the sessions with humour, sensitivity and groundedness – giving space for each person on their own journey. Highly recommend the sessions.
Mags Smith