“If I can help even one person with this, I'll be happy.”
Agnes from Stiens developed a unique therapy method called ‘Colour your feelings’. Using puzzle pieces, a car park with toy cars and an image of the human body, she makes feelings discussable and tangible. The idea came to her when she was undergoing therapy herself and had difficulty with abstract concepts such as ‘puzzle pieces’ and ‘parking something’. By making these concepts literal, it became easier for herself and others.
What started at the kitchen table grew into a professional set thanks to the help of friends with a 3D printer. The basic set consists of puzzle pieces and blocks with words on them. By giving feelings a colour and working with tangible materials, it becomes easier to recognise and break patterns. Agnes still uses the method herself regularly: “Words can hurt a lot, but when I write them down and give them a colour, my mind becomes calmer.”.
A method for everyone
The method is intended for everyone, with or without a diagnosis. People who find it difficult to express their feelings, such as those with autism, particularly benefit from this tangible approach.
Agnes has extensive experience with therapy due to childhood trauma. She encourages others to seek help: “Don't hesitate, ask for help. I asked for a lot of help until I found the right people. That gave me more and more strength.” In 2024, she came into contact with Alex from Amaryllis“ Social Village Team North, who helped her get her life back on track. She is now doing so well that she has the time and energy to help others with her own method. ”If I can help even one person with this, I'll be happy."
There are now two expansion sets: a printout of the human body and a car park with toy cars. These help to show that emotions are not just in the head, but can also have physical consequences, such as stomach ache or shortness of breath.
Interested?
Anyone interested in the method can visit the website kleurjegevoel.nl. Agnes will be happy to visit you to explain and demonstrate the method.
Finally, Agnes recommends going outside if you are not feeling well: “Nature is the best medicine.”.