By using the camera as a metaphor for our eyes, we can gain insight into how we literally and psychologically see things and in doing so identify old and unhelpful patterns. For example, we may metaphorically: have a psychological tripod stuck in the same position - experiencing the same thing over and over; a cracked lens distorting the view; or believe our personal remit extends to telling other people what they should photograph.

The natural world offers symbols or templates of managing psychological challenges such as: growth amidst adversity, adaptation, cycles of change, forging new paths and working with the current. The act of photographing these symbols re-frames old narratives and imprints new helpful psychological templates to guide future action.

Photography can act as a helpful bridge between our modern technological selves and the wider ecology beyond the preoccupations of our individual minds. When our focus is fully engaged with the world beyond our internal dialogue, we might achieve moments of what is commonly known as mindfulness - a state of calm connectedness. This can be relieving for states of stress and anxiety.

When we proactively create something new, such as making symbolic sculptures with personal or found objects in the landscape, the natural environment takes on the role of ‘safe container’ for creating new psychological possibilities. Getting our hands involved, shifts the focus from human as observer to maker, amplifying our capacity to create change. Photographing our creations reinforces new neural pathways in our brains - the building blocks of change.

In a group setting, we additionally become aware that we form part of the natural environment for each other. Creative group exercises gently mediate our interpersonal development as an important - yet often sidelined - balance to any self development we undertake as individuals.

Powerful photographic activities can also take place indoors, using our own printed photographs alongside other meaningful 2D images. As the brain uses autobiographical memory and present sensations to assign an emotion to what we see, making new photographic collages can be a dynamic tool in challenging old unhelpful narratives through new constructions.

A safe and supported group space offers an invitation to integrate new insights through sharing workshop experiences, hearing the perspective of others or simply being quiet for a while. Above all, each individual has choice to participate in a way that feels safe.