How I Work

Theoretical Background

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My core training is as an Integrative Counsellor. This includes training in the main models of counselling and psychotherapy – the Humanistic, Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) and the Psychodynamic. Training and working integratively is important to me as it embraces putting the person at the heart of the process. 

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Over time, the humanistic traditions have become my main influence and are the closest to my own heart and personality. Person-centred, Gestalt, Transactional Analysis (TA), Internal Family Systems (IFS), Mindfulness, and Eastern Philosophy are key to the way I work.

 

To me, working within Humanistic philosophy means creating a non-judgmental relationship. Knowing that you are the expert on you. And having a desire to create a dialogue that is drawn to understanding you and your life. Out of this intention and connection, greater self-knowledge and awareness can grow, if needed, creative solutions can present themselves. And with the right support, changes can be enacted within yourself and your life. 

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Mindfulness

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I can integrate Mindfulness Coaching to help you establish a mindfulness meditation practice. This can greatly improve resilience and create a more manageable relationship to an overactive mind.

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I especially enjoy facilitating a better experience for those who have been put off meditation by feeling pressure 'to empty the mind'. 

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And when formal meditation really isn't someone's cup of tea, I find some of the key principles (such as non-judgmental thought labelling) can still be put into practice to great effect in day-to-day life.

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Hypnotherapy

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Hypnotherapy isn't my core mode of working, but I find it is sometimes very useful in facilitating people's access to resources and experiences that lie dormant or hidden behind defensive parts. A great example is using Hypnotherapy to access one's inner child. 

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The process of entering a deepened, relaxed state during Hypnosis can in itself be an important experience in terms of learning how to soothe and regulate the nervous system. 

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