What will happen in sessions?
For many people, the thought of starting therapy can feel unsettling and a bit scary. I aim to create a safe and supportive space where you can allow yourself to feel and think, where you will be heard. Therapy will challenge you and be painful at times - it will also be empowering, energising and change you in ways you hadn’t expected.
At its most basic level, therapy is simply a conversation where you can begin to work things through. Many people often feel relief at simply getting their story out to another person who is willing to listen without fearing judgement, who is available and reliable. Some come with a clear life goal to achieve, whilst others may not know what they need, other than simply wanting to feel more at ease with themselves. Often the root of a problem is hidden from view and so people need help to uncover this. Through collaborating with another person, therapy offers an alternative, that liberation from old patterns is possible.
Theoretical approach
If you have a specific interest in my theoretical approach:
I describe myself as an integrative therapist.
The word ‘integrative’ is used to describe the integration of different strands. Broadly these are existential, psychodynamic and relational. I am interested in the existential - how the difficulties of existing as a human in this world affect you, and how you might adapt to deal with them. I also might consider how relationships (particularly early on in life) have formed your character, and may unconsciously influence the thoughts you have and choices you make. I also believe that as humans we want to belong, and that often this need is thwarted by difficulties in relationships. Therefore a big part of my work is to establish a good working relationship with you. In the words of Irvin Yalom, ‘it’s the relationship that heals.’