ELLIE GILbertson
The Digital Therapist | An art therapist’s perspective on migrating therapy online with broader implications for practice
Elle Gilbertson is an HCPC-registered Art Psychotherapist (MSc) with a diploma in online therapy and supervision. She specializes in online creativity, trauma-informed movement, and digital art therapy. With experience in the NHS, education, and private practice, Elle works with adults, children, and groups, focusing on creativity and somatic interventions for holistic health.
Elle will share insights on developing safe, effective online therapy, highlighting creative and somatic practices, trauma-informed frameworks, and the importance of supporting therapeutic alliances in digital settings. She will also speak about the process of assessing and selecting the right tools for online therapy to meet diverse client needs.
LESLEY SIMPSON-GRAY
Building a New Education Roadmap | ACTO’s Curriculum Framework
Lesley Simpson-Gray, ACTO Board Director, brings her extensive experience in online therapy education and training to this exclusive session. In her presentation, Lesley will introduce ACTO’s new Curriculum Framework, designed to set high standards for online therapists in an evolving digital landscape. She will also discuss ACTO’s collaborations with training organisations to fast-track membership for new practitioners and provide an early preview of the 2025 Membership Pathways Course, streamlining the application and renewal process.
Don’t miss this opportunity to engage with the future of online therapy!
MatT Cohen
Embracing Digital Tools | Finding the Right Fit for Your Practise
Matt Cohen, CEO of PlaySpace, is focused on enhancing the effectiveness of both virtual and in-person therapy. With over 20 years of mental health experience, he’s committed to making care accessible to all. Previously, he led strategy at MindBeacon and consulted for digital health and medical device companies.
Are you new to online therapy or looking for ways to make your virtual sessions more engaging? Whether working online or in-person, finding the right tools can feel overwhelming. In this presentation, Matt Cohen will talk about how PlaySpace helps therapists confidently navigate the digital landscape, choose the right tools, and adapt technology to meet diverse client needs.
NINA Salomons
Going from Pen and Paper to Virtual Reality
Join Nina Salomons, CEO and Co-founder of Anomie, as she presents “Going from Pen and Paper to Virtual Reality.” With a background in filmmaking, gaming, and community events, Nina has over eight years of experience in tech and innovation. She will discuss how immersive technologies can transform traditional practices, share insights from her work with Women in VR and the XR Diversity Initiative, and explore the potential of VR to shift perspectives and enhance engagement.
RORY LEES-OAKES
Counselling Theory to Practice | A Student’s Guide.
Rory Lees-Oakes is the co-director at Counselling Tutor and the author of Counselling Theory to Practice: A Student’s Guide. With over a decade of experience lecturing in counselling, he shares invaluable insights into theory and practice. A Counsellor, Clinical Supervisor, and Lecturer, Rory received the Silver Plato Award in 2015 for exceptional technology use in education. He is also a Fellow of the Teaching Awards and prefers tea rooms over bars for his favorite beverage.
SUSAN UTting-SIMON
The Global Therapist
I am a Senior Professional Member of ACTO and a qualified Online Therapist and Supervisor with seven years of experience. Holding BACP Senior Accredited status, I work entirely online with clients aged late teens to early 30s, supporting therapists in diverse settings through supervision. My interests include trans-cultural issues and complex mental health concerns.
Susan will be sharing my experience of working across international borders as a therapist and supervisor, looking at some of the things learned along the way: the challenges, the rewards and opportunities.
Tara tan
Digital Media Integrated into Therapy Practice
Tara is a senior art psychotherapist at Imara, a Nottingham-based charity supporting children and families affected by sexual and domestic abuse. She is trained in various trauma-informed approaches and has extensive experience working with trauma in both adults and children. With a creative background in videography, motion graphics, and animation, Tara is eager to explore the integration of digital media into therapeutic practices.
