Approach
There are many modalities within counselling and psychotherapy. My approach, is psychodynamic, which considers the way in which our earliest life experiences repeat themselves throughout our lives, in relationships, jobs and how we deal with life's difficulties. However, research has shown that it is the relationship between us which is of first importance.
I welcome all identities, cultures and experiences and believe that inequality, discrimination, social and cultural structures, wars and oppression, all impact on our experience of the world and of each other. I am open to challenge where I am mistaken, or fall short.
Change
Although you may wonder whether life can be any other way, I believe that change is possible through a trusting and empathic relationship, in which we feel heard and understood. Together, we can discover how we become more true to ourselves.
Consequently, it is important to find the right person and feel safe and heard.
Psychotherapy or counselling
Psychotherapist, Counsellor and Therapist are not protected titles and do not have agreed definitions. This can lead to confusion. A new framework is under way nationally and clearer definitions may soon emerge. I currently describe myself as a counsellor, but am trained, willing and able to work with you on a short-term issue, or at depth, over a longer period of time.
Short and Long Term Counselling
In short-term counselling, we could set a time-frame and look at a specific difficulty or challenge in your life, or be open to whatever emerges from a few weeks of work.
In longer term, or open-ended counselling, we would have the time to develop a more trusting relationship and explore your experiences at a deeper level.
We can discuss the length of counselling in an initial session and review it regularly - you will never be tied into a long-term commitment.
Other information on counselling and psychotherapy
Links to interesting podcasts, or counselling training, can be found here.