My Approach to Psychotherapy & Counselling

 

My approach to therapy is integrative, with a strong foundation in the humanistic, person-centred tradition. This means that, above all, I believe therapy depends upon developing a genuine, trusting relationship in which you feel understood, accepted and able to talk openly about whatever is troubling you.

 

The principles developed by Carl Rogers — empathy, authenticity and acceptance without judgement — remain central to the way I work. I don’t see therapy as something that is simply done to you, nor do I assume that I know what is best for you. Instead, we work together to understand your experience and what you would like to change.

 

At the same time, I draw upon a range of therapeutic ideas according to the needs of each individual. My work is particularly influenced by psychodynamic and relational approaches, which can help us explore how earlier experiences and important relationships may continue to shape the way you think, feel and relate to others in the present.

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Sometimes our work may involve exploring recurring patterns in relationships, childhood and family experiences, dreams, memories or feelings that emerge within therapy itself. At other times, a more practical approach may be useful, drawing on techniques that help with anxiety, emotional regulation or changing established patterns of thinking and behaviour.

 

I don’t believe that one therapeutic model is right for everyone. The therapy is shaped around you. Some people want to understand themselves and their past more deeply; others come with a particular problem they want to address; and often these two things become intertwined.

 

My aim is to provide a thoughtful, compassionate and psychologically informed space in which we can understand not only what you are experiencing, but also why it may be happening and what might help things to change.