Arts-based reflective practice group offers a creative space to explore loss in perinatal mental health services
We recently heard from a colleague about the fantastic work they do to support their team to have the reflective practice they need.
Each month, a unique and supportive space opens up within the Perinatal Mental Health team, where staff gather not just to talk, but to reflect and create art. Led by Sue Bulmer, Art Psychotherapist, the Arts-Based Loss Reflective Practice Group offers an opportunity to process the often-unspoken emotional impact of working in a healthcare setting, particularly around experiences of loss.
Reflective practice is the process of reflecting on and making sense of our experiences, particularly in our roles as healthcare professionals. It encourages individuals to explore not only what happened, but how it felt, what it meant, and what could be learned from it. Perinatal mental health can be particularly emotionally demanding and reflective practice helps staff process complex experiences, stay connected to their values, and maintain compassionate, person-centred care.
Using a blend of guided themes, open discussion, and creative expression, the group explores a wide range of losses relevant to perinatal work. From the tangible, such as pregnancy and baby loss, to the more abstract, including detachment, relational rupture, or loss of certainty. The sessions acknowledge the many ways in which loss shows up in both our professional roles and personal lives.
This is not a therapy group, but rather a reflective space grounded in creativity and connection. Each session includes a short introduction to the theme, followed by time for art-making and a shared reflective circle at the end of the session. There is no expectation for any kind of artistic skill, just a curious open mind and a willingness to explore and be with what arises.
Reflective practice is important because it supports emotional resilience and wellbeing and helps prevent burnout and compassion fatigue. It encourages learning and professional growth and enhances team connection and understanding.
The feedback has been overwhelmingly positive.
Dr Rita Lacerda, Clinical Psychologist, said:
"The art reflective practice group was the reason I joined the perinatal team in the first place. To me it spoke of a team that values their staff and their wellbeing. Helping clients who are experiencing significant mental illness and trauma responses from perinatal loss and birth trauma will unavoidably have an impact on staff. I prioritise attending because it gives me a genuine sense of connection to colleagues, while also providing the space to process thoughts and emotions that inevitably arise from my clinical work. Loss takes on so many different shapes and sizes, not all of them easily recognisable. Words are often not enough for us to contain and hold all of it, and having access to art materials helps immensely. Having access to this group makes me a better therapist and supports my own wellbeing. I am very grateful for it."
One colleague shared:
"This group offers such a rare and welcome opportunity to pause and reflect. The art-making allows me to process in a different way, one that feels more spacious and intuitive."
Another commented: "It's such a gift to have a non-judgemental, creative space to explore feelings that are often hard to put into words. I leave each session feeling lighter and more connected."
Others have noted that it has helped them reconnect with meaning in their work, offering a sense of renewal and emotional grounding amid the demands of frontline care.
The group has become a valued part of the team's wellbeing offer, demonstrating the power of the arts to support reflective practice, resilience, and team cohesion. It's a testament to what can happen when we give ourselves permission to slow down, create, and reflect.
Loss is a recurring theme that can impact staff on both personal and professional levels. The group was set up in October 2022 when it became apparent there was a need within the team to offer a space to explore this theme.
The group provides a non-judgemental, confidential space where staff can step away from their day-to-day tasks, slow down, and engage creatively with the emotional aspects of their work. Many participants say the creative element helps them express and process feelings that are hard to put into words. It fosters emotional insight, a sense of connection with colleagues, and a renewed sense of purpose in their work.
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