My Biography

Life greeted me with a few early plot twists. My mother experienced postpartum psychosis, and I was introduced to bottle feeding before I could protest (though Artificial Intelligence might’ve done a better job feeding me!). I also spent some time in a Baby House, where I was famously offered pea soup at three months old — Freud would have had a field day with that.

Freud’s “anal stage” brought more cheerful news: I mastered potty training early and with pride. Growing up in Soviet-era Ukraine, we had no disposable nappies — just lots of patience and resourcefulness. I like to think of myself as a textbook example of tidy toddler triumph.

The “phallic stage” saw me dive into hobbies: swimming, sports, theatre. I even dreamt of becoming an actress. That dream took a detour but never disappeared. Instead, it evolved into years of bringing stories, laughter, and creativity into care homes as an Activities Coordinator.

Adulthood brought its psychological weather — some dark clouds, including low self-esteem and burnout. But I won’t give away the whole drama here (that’s better saved for a case study!). What matters is the recovery: therapy, self-discovery, Tai Chi, and reconnecting with my creative spirit.

Today, I’m studying Art Therapy with deep passion. This journey isn’t just academic — it’s personal, transformative, and filled with purpose. I’ve lived through experiences that taught me the value of expression, healing, and humour. And now, I’m learning how to help others do the same.