Lyni Sargent’s path to becoming a self-employed Art Psychotherapist is a story of perseverance, late diagnoses, and the transformative power of art. Her academic and personal journey showcases how determination and the right support systems can lead to success – even when the odds seem stacked against you.
Early Life and Educational Challenges
“I grew up in Hinckley, Leicestershire and attended Battling Brook Primary School, Redmoor High School, and then completed my GCSEs at John Cleveland College. I failed all of my GCSEs as I had undiagnosed Dyslexia, Dyspraxia, and ADHD.”
It wasn’t until later in life that Lyni began to understand the challenges she faced throughout her education. At 28, she took a bold step and enrolled in a foundation degree in photography at Leicester College.
“Within a couple of weeks of starting, my struggles became apparent and I was referred for a dyslexia assessment. Shortly afterwards I was diagnosed with dyslexia and dyspraxia.”
Reclaiming Education and Gaining Confidence
Far from giving up, Lyni continued her studies, topping up her qualification to a BA (Hons) in Professional Studies in the Creative Industry – sponsored by De Montfort University. With her dyslexia diagnosis giving her clarity, she took on another challenge: re-sitting her GCSEs.
“Knowing that I had dyslexia made me feel empowered to retake my GCSEs and I gained a 7 in Maths, and a 9 in English. These were at North Warwickshire and South Leicestershire College.”
Her postgraduate studies brought further revelations. “It was when I commenced my MA that I was screened for, and diagnosed with, ADHD.”
Discovering a Passion in Art Therapy
Lyni chose to pursue an MA in Art Psychotherapy Practice through the Northern Programme at Netherthorpe House, Sheffield, sponsored by Leeds Beckett.
“I always found school difficult, but bizarrely I found Art Therapy relatively easy. There was a lot of coursework to get through, lots of reading and assignments, but because it was something that I felt so passionate about it didn’t feel like hard work.”
Her course included practical elements that helped ground the theory.
“We also had to complete reflective practice which involved making artwork which enabled us to reflect on what we had read. We then discussed as a group our reflections. I think this action kept our stress levels lower which helped with our studies.”
A pivotal part of the course was her placement.
“I completed my placement at Maplewell Hall School in Loughborough which is a lovely school for High School aged children with Special Educational Needs.”
Paving the Way to Employment
Lyni is clear about the importance of her qualification in launching her career.
“Art Psychotherapy/Art Therapy is a protected title, so I would not be able to practice without the qualification. So yes, (the interest-free loan) made a very big, positive impact!”
Support from The Sir Thomas White Loan Charity
When it came to funding her postgraduate studies, Lyni sought out financial support.
“A peer had received a grant who lives in the North of England. I knew I wasn’t eligible as location was a criteria, but I did a Google search to see if there was anything similar for Leicestershire.”
That search led her to STWLC’s interest-free education loan.
“It was very straightforward. I often feel overwhelmed when it comes to following processes, but Sarah Hope (STWLC Operations Manager) was so kind, calm and professional that she made the whole process feel effortless.”
The Charity made a significant difference in helping Lyni manage the cost of studying.
“With me living in Hinckley and having to travel to Sheffield each week, I could not have afforded the course without the support of STWLC. Student Finance didn’t cover the fees, never mind all of the extra expenses that come with studying! I had to purchase so many books as they weren’t available in libraries, pay for fuel and a B&B each week, as well as manage on a reduce income as I was only able to work for two and a half days a week.”
Her message to others considering postgraduate study is simple:
“I would most definitely recommend STWLC’s interest-free education loan to anybody studying a postgraduate course!
Looking to Further Your Education Without the Financial Burden?
STWLC offers interest-free education loans to eligible students pursuing postgraduate study. If, like Lyni, you’re passionate about your future but need financial support to get there, STWLC could be the helping hand you need.
Click below to learn more about how to apply and take the next step towards your postgraduate journey – interest-free and full of possibility.