Why is the studio called “Taming the Tiger”?

The tiger is a powerful symbol. It is the ultimate predator—majestic, agile, and awe-inspiring. It can climb, swim, hunt, and run but is also endangered, reminding us how delicate power can be when misunderstood or unchecked. For me, the tiger represents the complex, internal forces within each of us—the parts of ourselves that, if ignored or misunderstood, can create chaos in our internal and external worlds.

In therapy, we learn to recognise the early signs of our "tiger": the flick of its tail, the subtle shift of its ears, or the low growl of defence before a full eruption. With support, we can gently and curiously explore these hidden, split-off parts and access their immense resources. This process isn’t about silencing the tiger but working with it—taming it—so we can integrate its strength into our lives with greater awareness and functionality.

The Tiger metaphor also pays homage to Peter Levine’s work and his seminal book Walking the Tiger, which explores trauma as a psychological condition and a deeply embodied experience. Levine’s metaphorical tiger teaches us that healing isn’t just in the mind but rooted in the body. His somatic approach normalises trauma responses and offers a path to recovery by reconnecting with the body and its natural rhythms.

Finally, the name playful nods to my role as a Creative Arts Therapist—CAT for short. Like a tiger stalking the jungle, CATs venture into the rich terrain of self-expression, harnessing music, art, movement, drama, poetry, writing, and play to help people reconnect with their authentic selves. In my hospital work, even my cat bell lanyard sparks curiosity, inviting patients and staff alike to explore what it means to be a "CAT."

Through Taming the Tiger, I offer a secure, creative space where self-expression leads to self-acceptance, radical hope, and the courage to move, sound, and create with all the unique vitality of your inner tiger.