My Approach
"To fully relate to another, one must first relate to oneself". - Irvin Yalom
I am an integrative Counsellor/ Psychotherapist which means I have trained and qualified to use the following approaches, Psychodynamic, Humanistic and Cognitive Behavioural Therapy. Integrative counselling is a collective approach to psychotherapy that joins different elements of specific therapies.
I focus heavily on the concept of neuroscience in counselling. The mind-body connection and the link between our mental and physical health.
The strategies and interventions that I use are tailored to each individual, there is no one size fits all. I am guided by you and the reasons that have brought you into therapy. I work relationally believing the success of our relationship to be a key component in supporting you.
If for any reason I feel it would be in your best interest to work with another therapist, I will support you to find an alternative counsellor/ psychotherapist. Your emotional wellbeing will always be the highest priority.
Psychodynamic
Psychodynamic therapy is a 'whole life' approach where you will explore and gain a deeper insight into your current feelings, beliefs and behaviours. You will gain a greater self-awareness by understanding the influence your past has had on your present. In the therapy room, exploration of your responses is used to bring your unconscious self into conscious awareness.
Psychodynamic therapy is inherently a relational process.
Humanistic
Humanistic therapy focuses far more on the here and now, it provides an atmosphere of support, empathy, and trust in which you can share your feelings without fear of judgment. The relationship is one of equals and wherever possible, the direction of sessions is determined by you and your concerns in the moment as the expert on your own life and challenges. Person-centred therapy harnesses your natural self-healing process.
Cognitive Behavoural Therapy (CBT)
Cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT) is a type of psychotherapy based on a model that suggests that mental-health difficulties stem from dysfunctional thinking. CBT aims to identify and modify any negative automatic thoughts and core beliefs.
Negative thoughts and actions are replaced with productive behaviours that will make you feel equipped to overcome any difficult moments. You will recognise how thinking can influence your emotions and you will learn to adopt healthy coping mechanisms.
Polyvagal -Neuroscience
Polyvagal theory relates to your autonomic nervous system, your behaviours and responses to trauma. This theory helps you to understand your nervous system, it defines the ways the automatic nervous system reacts to experiences and regulates responses. When used in therapy, this theory helps to explain how you can control your body’s responses to calm your mind. Polyvagal theory focuses on your memories that can impact your physical state. Even when the threat is gone, your body might still perceive danger and the defence systems stay engaged. It teaches you to safely listen to your autonomic story and shape your system towards safety and connection.