COUNSELLING
Psychotherapeutic counselling is a very personal experience that requires a deep level of trust and understanding between the client and the therapist. Using a pluralistic approach, I tailor my services to each individual client’s needs. Whether you are looking for humanistic, person-centred, solution-focused, CBT, Transactional Analysis, psychodynamic or Gestalt therapy, I am committed to helping you find the tools to improve your quality of life. Psychotherapy and counseling are two umbrella terms used to describe talk therapy services. While both involve talking with a mental health professional, psychotherapy tends to be a more in-depth, long-term process that focuses on exploring deep-rooted patterns and emotions. Counseling, on the other hand, is typically a short-term approach designed to address specific issues and challenges. I offer both psychotherapeutic counselling, a blend of the two, which can be adapted to suit the individual and the issues affecting them. I am trained to listen and understand your unique perspective, offering support and guidance to help you navigate the challenges of life.
COUNSELLING APPROACHES
Humanistic Humanistic Counselling, also known as person- or client-centered therapy, is a non-directive approach that fosters a collaborative relationship between the client and the therapist. In this approach, the client is not seen as a passive recipient of treatment, but as an active participant in their healing journey. The therapist's role is to create a safe, non-judgmental space where the client can explore their feelings without fear of criticism. By listening carefully and asking open-ended questions, clients can gain an understanding of their thoughts and emotions. This approach is based upon empathy, genuineness and unconditional positive regard. It encourages personal growth, improves self-esteem, and leads to a deeper understanding of oneself.
Solution Focused Solution focused counselling assists in identifying what changes the client would like in their life in order to reach their goal and help them find objectives or ways to achieve those changes and resolve the problems. Lengthy analysis of the past is not required. Instead the focus is on what’s happening in the present and what changes need to be made to enable them to have the future desired. This therapy focuses on solutions rather than the problem, and as such, highlights strengths and competencies instead of any perceived deficits, weaknesses and limitations.
CBT Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) is a form of therapy that focuses on the relationship between your thoughts, feelings and behaviours. CBT may be used to help people better understand their emotions, manage stress, and develop more effective coping strategies. With this form of therapy, you can learn to identify and challenge negative thought patterns and develop new, positive ways of thinking.
Transactional Analysis is an effective way to help individuals overcome obstacles and achieve their goals. This approach focuses on improving communication and interpersonal relationships, by examining the transactions that occur between individuals. In having a deeper understanding of themselves and how they interact with others and the world around them, healthier, more positive relationships can be formed.
Psychodynamic Psychodynamic counselling is a type of therapy that is derived from psychoanalysis and the theories of Freud. It focuses on the client's unconscious thoughts and childhood experiences, which are believed to be affecting them in later life. Everyone's background and experiences are unique, therefore a personalised approach tailored to each patient's needs is required to explore their inner selves and find solutions to their problems.
Gestalt Gestalt therapy is a holistic approach to counseling that examines both the individual and their environment. Founded on the notion that change can be made through greater self-awareness, Gestalt therapy stresses the importance of personal responsibility and encourages individuals to adopt a proactive approach to their problems. Working collaboratively, a client can develop a deeper understanding of their unique psychological motivations, thier needs and desires.
ONLINE THERAPY
Online sessions work in a very similar way as they would if I were to see you face-to-face. These are done via video from your PC, laptop, mobile or tablet. I typically use Skype, however, other options are available such as WhatsApp, Messenger or Teams Once we have set up an appointment, I will send you a registration form prior to the first session, together with some information regarding my practice, policies and the session itself. The form needs to be completed and returned to me in advance. ​ We will then connect for the appointment using a video link. You will need to ensure that you have a place where you feel comfortable and are unlikely to be disturbed. The electronic device you use should be fully charged and/or plugged in for the duration of the session. The appointment will then progress as it would in a clinic environment, but with the added convenience for yourself and the comfort of being in your own home.