How I work
Everyone is different, and individuals need different things at different times. Therapy is a dynamic process and is most effective when it is collaborative. Listening, understanding and offering a non-judgemental space is proven to be the most effective way to help clients. I will adapt and and respond to you as an individual, and can work in a variety of ways with you. There are many ideas and theories in therapy, and below are some that I have understanding and experience in.
Person-centred therapy
Person or client-centred therapy is based on the view that everyone has the capacity for growth and change, given the right conditions. Rather than being seen as the expert and directing the therapy, the counsellor works to create a relationship where you feel safe, understood and accepted. Experiencing these conditions can help you come to terms with feelings, experiences and events and help you to heal, change and develop in your own way. Person centred therapy is an empowering form of therapy.
Art Therapy
Art therapy, and art counselling uses the creative process of making art to explore and communicate issues, feelings and emotions which may be too difficult or distressing to express in words. It can help improve your mental wellbeing, increase self-awareness and help you access inner resources. I am an art counsellor and work in a non-directive way using person-centred art therapy skills, you can find out more here.
Creative therapy
Creative therapy includes a wide range of techniques which can help you find a way of expressing yourself beyond words or traditional talking therapies. It can include visual arts therapy, writing, sand play, dance movement therapy, drama therapy and music therapy. Therapists may use different approaches at different times to suit the needs of the client.
Play therapy
Mostly used with children but play therapy can also be a helpful way to work with adults. Play can be a useful tool to express feelings and deal with emotional problems. It can help children to work through their anxieties, difficulties and experiences. Play is often a non verbal process which works with conscious and subconscious material.
Phenomenological therapy
A phenomenological approach looks at an individual's perception and experience of a situation or event rather than its external reality. It focuses on a clients view of themselves and others, the experience of feeling, moment by moment experiencing and edge of awareness material. It can help you understand why you see things in the way you do, and to develop more helpful ways of thinking and behaving.
Relationship or couples therapy
Couples therapy works to improve communication and encourages the parties in a relationship to recognise, understand and manage troublesome differences that they are experiencing. Clients may be given homework or tasks, such as conversation topics, to complete between regular sessions.
Transpersonal therapy
Transpersonal therapy places an emphasis on human potential, and spirituality. It uses a combination of spiritual knowledge and traditions from around the world, and elements of contemporary psychology to help clients to utilise inner resources to create a sense of balance and harmony in their lives. It can include using methods such as guided visualisations, meditation, and dream work.
