When to seek help
Some people seek help because continuing as they are is tiring, it feels unfulfilling or too much to bear. Perhaps the thought of remaining as they are fills them with dread and the future is too bleak to imagine. For others they are facing one of life's transitions, e.g. marriage, divorce, bereavement, retirement or the children are leaving home.
Some clients have one area that causes an otherwise good life to be difficult and this problem leaves them puzzled, frustrated and dissatisfied. Alternatively some people are curious about what more there is to life and want to know themselves in every way possible. For others it’s something they have to do in order to achieve a goal, its one step or one part of the bigger picture.
Some clients have one area that causes an otherwise good life to be difficult and this problem leaves them puzzled, frustrated and dissatisfied. Alternatively some people are curious about what more there is to life and want to know themselves in every way possible. For others it’s something they have to do in order to achieve a goal, its one step or one part of the bigger picture.
Benefits of therapy
Clients have often reported the benefits of speaking to someone who is 'neutral', who isn't a member of the family, a partner or friend. Many say that speaking with an active listener brings immediate relief and hope that things can change for the better.
Other feedback suggests that people have developed tools to manage their life and feel they are able to make informed decisions that are in their best interests. Ultimately the goal is that the symptoms they came with are no longer problematic and many say these symptoms have been replaced with insight, inner calm, self-direction and a sense of lightness and freedom.
What to expect from therapy
Initially the sessions will focus on understanding what has brought you to therapy and what you hope to achieve. We can discuss which type of therapy you would like and how this is reflected in the sessions and in the therapeutic relationship. Once this is agreed we will have regular reviews to ensure that you are satisfied with how things are progressing and to discuss any changes in style or focus. Our reviews will also include how long you would like to continue with therapy and when therapy might come to an end.
The description of my therapy approaches will hopefully give you an idea of how the therapy works but more information can be found on the Counselling or CBT webpages, alternatively you can contact me to arrange a consultation.
Sessions are generally weekly, 50 minutes long and cost £50.
The description of my therapy approaches will hopefully give you an idea of how the therapy works but more information can be found on the Counselling or CBT webpages, alternatively you can contact me to arrange a consultation.
Sessions are generally weekly, 50 minutes long and cost £50.
Counselling
For me counselling is a set of conditions that allow the process of change to happen. The core conditions of the person centred approach (empathy, congruence and unconditional positive regard) and the therapeutic relationship allow for a unique experience that makes this a different kind of talking. This talking is open to different possibilities and truths, this exploration can connect you with different aspects of yourself. It is these aspects or characteristics that provide information about who you are. Read more about the counselling model here
As part of my couselling model I integrate theories that draw upon eastern philosophy. These theories emphasise the holistic approach (body, mind and spirit) and view each of us as part of wider system, be it the family or the society we live in. These 3rd wave models include Gestalt, Family Constellations, The Compassionate Mind Approach, Mindfulness and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy. These models provide a way of working that encourages the unconscious to become conscious. The clarity and integration that can come through counselling can give a renewed sense of self. This sense of self combined with new ways of relating to yourself and the world around you can bring life long change.
Cognitive Behavioural Therapy
CBT is problem oriented, it explores the current problem within the context of the person's environment. As the name suggests CBT is particularly interested in thoughts and behaviours and how these are connected to your symptoms. CBT looks at how these interactions create vicious cycles. Drawing upon the evidence from years of research, CBT offers techniques and new ways of breaking the vicious cycles to bring about recovery and lasting change. You can read more about CBT here
Cognitive Behavioural Therapy has a more scientific approach to a persons 'problem' and labels these within a range of recognised disorders. For example Phobias, Panic Disorder, Obsessive Compulsive Disorder or Depression to name but a few. It is also recommended for IBS, long-term health conditions, and chronic pain. Whilst CBT works within a medical model my CBT practice incorporates my counselling training so that the core conditions remain present. Essential to the CBT approach is a collaborative therapeutic relationship, i.e. the therapist and client bring their joint expertise and knowledge to the therapy to try to find a solution and obtain the client's goal.
The Process of Change
The process of change only asks of you what you can give. In return, this process opens up different perspectives, new ways of being and feeling; it provides hope and energy. The process will create it’s own momentum so that you can continue until you reach a place in yourself, and in your life, where you feel safe enough to stop, rest and enjoy the place you are in.
There is no rush and change can be slow or fast. This is a journey with many destinations. It is as much a gift to yourself as it is a place to arrive. If you wish, I can accompany you.
