Therapist-2-Therapist with Grace Newnham - Art Therapist

Your book recommendation?

I’ll admit, I’m not the most consistent reader—I tend to get more hooked on

podcasts. That said, I do love reading when it’s about escaping into different

worlds and stories.

The most recent book I finished was The Women. It tells the story of

American nurses who went to Vietnam during the war, and it highlights the

struggles women faced in the 60s and 70s regarding recognition and equality.

It was an eye-opening and captivating read.

I also couldn’t put down Zoe Foster Blake’s Things Will Calm Down Soon. It

was such a great page-turner!

I have read the Twilight series many times... its escapism and romance at

best. These kinds of series exist to take us into a different world.

Go-to wellness tool?

Sleep and rest are key for me. When I say rest, I mean things like reading,

painting, chatting with a friend on the phone, or going for a walk to catch up. I

also enjoy cooking and baking, and of course, there’s nothing better than a

good, intentional sleep-in that leaves me feeling refreshed.

Favourite grounding practice?

I enjoy mindful eating and cooking, especially when I’m making meals for

others and sharing them. There’s something special about that connection

over food!

I also love driving while singing along to my favourite tunes—it's such a fun

experience that I often find myself not wanting to reach my destination.

Running is another outlet of mine. It’s a great way to boost my endorphins

and helps me feel strong and capable. It really supported my confidence

during my Master's program too.

A creative tool you love?

I’m really into film photography! I adore using my point-and-shoot camera

and the whole process of it. The best part is you never really know how your

photos will turn out—it’s always an exciting surprise, whether they’re perfect

or not!

I also enjoy making birthday or celebration cards for friends and family,

especially with watercolor paint. It’s a creative and personal way to show I

care.

Inspiring song, quote, film or art?

These shift constantly, but at the moment, I’m captivated by Lee, a film that

recently came out about a female war photographer during World War II. It’s

been incredibly gripping! I’ve delved deeper into her story, and after recently

traveling to Poland and visiting Auschwitz-Birkenau, I’ve become even more

absorbed in the profound trauma of it all.

I’m also loving the Wicked soundtrack and the movie—both are incredibly

inspiring and moving, especially as someone who loves musical theatre.

One phrase that I always keep in mind is “Everyone is trying their best.” It’s

a reminder rooted in the value of love and understanding.

Alexandra Lederman