PHILOSOPHY & APPROACH
I am human first and integrate psychotherapy into this to help the people I see. I am open to you and your experiences. My original training in counselling & psychotherapy was Person Centred, but I now also allow other theories to inform my practice. I believe that as well as you being the prime driving force behind the therapy, the client/counsellor relationship is of great value too. Recent research has shown that it is not only the 'approach' or 'technique' of a therapist that is helpful, but the relationship they form with their clients.
Person-Centred Counselling theory was not designed to treat specific problems, but rather any difficulty that one may encounter. The Internal Family Systems (IFS Therapy) model, EMDR and Brainspotting were designed to work with more complex issues and trauma. So, it is natural that I use these therapies in most of my sessions now.
I integrate an existential stance - which I understand as - my approach being unique to you and me, and giving you the space to experience yourself more fully, and make choices. Existentialism may mean accepting things 'as they are, and also finding meaning in what's happening. I take a non-pathologizing view of people rather than giving a label to any 'mental illness which is stigmatizing.
I will work with you at your pace, it is you who knows what it is that hurts, and what experiences are inside. It is my role to accept you as you are, accept and formulate a way of helping you.
My aim is to be attuned, engaged and present in your session.
As a therapist, my learning is continuous, I am always looking at developing my awareness and finding new ways of working. Over the years I have found other that there are other therapies that are quicker, and more powerful than talking therapy alone. These newer therapies are for people who want change, people who want to feel a better, and positive change.
I will work closely with you, to ensure you are getting the most from your therapy, and going in the direction you want, so you can gain more control over your life.
There is a great deal of pain in life, and perhaps the only pain that can be avoided is the pain that comes from trying to avoid pain. RD Laing.