"I was really looking forward to the phototherapy course. It's a unique combination of photography, contemplation and metaphor, where even an ordinary picture can hide a whole world of meanings. Thanks to this experience, I pay more attention to the space around me, to details, to moments that previously went unnoticed. This course taught me to be more attentive, more sensitive to myself and the world. And, of course, I want more! Time flew by too quickly - but it left behind a lot of warmth, inspiration and a desire to explore further"
Maryna

"I've been taking self-portraits for about 5 years, as well as portraits of people. But only after Alexandra's course on therapeutic photography did I realize what had been limiting me all this time... All the images I created are distinguished by one thing: the absence of emotions on my face, and sometimes the absence of a face as such. Like millions of children of those times, I was forbidden to show emotions, and in my photographs I also did not allow myself to go beyond these limits. Depression only ingrained this in me... I probably needed an adult who would allow me to show my feelings. In the safe space created by Alexandra during the course, I felt that I could express myself, I could get the most painful, without the threat of being judged. But most importantly, I looked at myself without judgment, with curiosity. Even if this photo was taken right after waking up, before washing and combing my hair, in the most fragile of states, without decorations and attempts to be the best version of myself myself"
Yana


“I especially liked the home practices - they were very grounding, added more awareness to life, it was interesting to look for something new for myself, something unusual. Very cool!”
Anonymous


“I really liked the structure of the course, namely how we gently entered the art of knowing ourselves through photography by working with metaphor. By first photographing objects and subjects, and gradually moving towards photographing portraits, it turned out to be easy to overcome awkwardness and internal barriers. This was also facilitated by the friendly warm atmosphere in the group, and, mainly, Alexandra's caring support and her belief in our internal resources. Alexandra is in love with the art of photography, and she was able to convey this mood to us during these meetings, giving us the opportunity to move forward”
Yulia

I firmly believe that artistic expression fosters a clearer understanding of the Self, helping us connect more deeply with our feelings, thoughts, and needs — and, in turn, with others. Engaging in creative practice with psychological guidance can be a deeply enriching experience for anyone seeking to nurture resilience, authenticity, and curiosity.

For more than ten years, I have worked as a professional artist using analog photography, video, and performance. Art has always been a grounding practice for me — a way to connect the dots, find meaning, and embrace the complexity of life. Over time, my passion for photography led me beyond the artistic realm into the field of psychology. Since 2022, I have focused my master’s research and practice on therapeutic photography.

I have developed my own approach based on methods introduced by pioneers in the field, including:

I currently offer lectures, workshops, and courses on therapeutic photography for groups and individuals — online and in person, in English and Ukrainian.

If you feel drawn to explore yourself through the lens of photography, I would be happy to share more details: alexandraclod@gmail.com

Participants’ feedbacks

“I got exactly what I came for – a starting point and introduction to therapeutic photography, concrete methods I can use with my own clients (I’ve already started trying some of them out this week), as well as more inspiration than I could have imagined, so I’m very satisfied. I was able to gather the courage to challenge myself to do what I would typically avoid, as well as to share with others, receive support, and get feedback. I also want to highlight the pleasant group atmosphere, the environment that helped me disconnect from everything ordinary and familiar, and the very delicious food. Thank you!”
Inesse

“The methods presented were insightful and useful. Thank you for the retreat experience and knowledge shared”
Reinis

“Thank you for the experience and for the tasks that allowed me to explore reflections within. The most meaningful day of the workshop for me was the day of self-portraits. Being in the middle of the workshop, it allowed me to go deeper and really explore myself. I also really appreciated how Alexandra was always available for conversations, which made the experience even more enriching. It was also wonderful to work in a group—it was truly stimulating”
Zita

“I came to Alexandra’s workshop to see some good photography and learn about how taking pictures and looking at them might be therapeutic. Alexandra is an inspiration as an artist, she is generous with her knowledge and ideas. The lectures gave insight into many ways how photography was and is still being used to deal with issues of mental health and processing trauma.
We had many practical tasks and discussions of the work produced. Alexandra welcomes different points of view and provides necessary support. Working with complex issues like adversity and loss can be overwhelming, but Alexandra’s enthusiasm and personal experience made it a very uplifting process”
Darja