‘To my mind, empathy is in itself a healing agent….If a person is understood, he or she belongs'
- Carl Rogers
The principle behind Humanistic Counselling and Psychotherapy is that the bond between the client and the therapist is key to its effectiveness. The emphasis is on our relationship and for this reason sessions are usually weekly or fortnightly to keep this relationship strong and for me to be available to you when you need me. I will be there for you as a confidant to hold you in unconditional positive regard, we learn from each other through mutual respect and make use of our ‘differences’. Occasionally I might offer some theory, a question or an intervention if I feel gentle guidance might be helpful. As an Integrative Psychotherapist and Counsellor these techniques are usually drawn from the integration of Humanistic and Psychodynamic practice, CBT and mindfulness. However due to my expertise, I can suggest additional therapies if I feel they might suit you (see my full range of therapies)
Within my role as an Integrative Psychotherapist and Counsellor, I don’t offer advice but help you find your own way. This is because the ‘person-centred approach’ stands in the belief that we are born with an actualising tendency which urges us to evolve and mature positively when we are surrounded by the core conditions of worth. So, when speaking with family, friends or peers feels tricky or you feel your words aren’t valued, let me be your listening ear.
I aim to create as safe a space as possible for you to speak from your heart and say the unspeakable. With me by your side you will not be alone and everything between us will be held in the strictness of confidence and without judgement.
I work to the BACP code of ethics giving you the assurance that I have your interests firmly in mind, please visit my ethics page for further information on confidentiality of our sessions. (see ethics page).
(Please be aware that I may be required to pass information on from our sessions if danger to yourself or others seems an imminent possibility)
Integrative Counselling a hollistic, collaborative approach with you in mind.
So how does integrative counselling work?
Integrative counselling, also called integrative psychotherapy, is a relatively new, holistic approach, which embraces the individual. I work from different schools of thought which means we can change tack and flex if one modality of counselling is not working for you.
Key theories used by integrative counsellors and psychotherapists in general are as follows:
Humanistic Theory – we have a natural pre-determination to find our own way and are ready primed to seek the life that is best for us, it embraces our uniqueness but recognises that this can affect the ways we move forward through life.
CBT (Cognitive Behavioural Therapy) – This is often recommended by the NHS. This therapy sees our thoughts, feelings and actions as connected. Talking therapy and therapeutic exercises can be used to quieten negative internal dialogue and intrusive thoughts.
Psychodynamic Therapy – This mode of therapy works on the belief that we run subconscious patterns often created through challenges and trauma through childhood. These can affect us, sometimes negatively in later life. Within this type of therapy, it is recognised as ‘cathartic’ to be open and talk about these experiences and you are encouraged to do so in order to reveal subconscous patterns of belief and behaviour that runs through our relationships with others. (With Cognitive Hypnotherapy and EMDR, other therapies I offer, we may tap into past trauma but only to reframe the meaning, talking is not always necessary unless you feel the need to share, visit my Cognitive Hypnotherapy page for more information).
Mindfulness – When we are thinking of the past or the future we are not in the moment. Cognitive Hypnotherapists would call this living in ‘trance moments’. It’s the moments when we are not in the here and now that our thoughts and emotions run stress patterns and can lead to feelings of anxiety. The benefits of mindfulness are becoming clear to see, as this popular therapy is becoming recognised in mainstream therapy. If you like nature and mindfulness than visit my eco-therapy page, this could be the therapy for you.
Integrative therapy means just that, it’s integrative, this means I am continually adding to my repetoire and many other therapies can be integrated into your therapeutic experience.