FAQ
Different models of therapy are like different lenses through which to view our issues. Sometimes a model that is similar to how we see/approach the world makes it easier to understand. Sometimes a model that is different can offer us a new perspective that catalyses a moment of movement.My pluralistic approach means that we will work with models that meet your needs. This may change within a session, or at different times in your therapy. You will always have a voice in how we work.I find my default tends around a person-centred approach, while keeping awareness of material that might lend itself to psychodynamic enquiry. At times, questioning styles, psychoeducation or exercises may be useful from other models such as CBT, Solution Focused, Gestalt, Transactional Analysis, etc.
Mental health support can be called upon at various times in life, just like we access physical health services. As with our physical health, some niggles can be persistent, old injuries can become inflamed, an unexpected situation may befall us… or, we will want to consult with someone new.I will be happy to discuss your previous experiences with therapy and answer all your questions about how I work and how we might build upon or change the formula of what went before, depending on your needs.
Through our work we can raise awareness of what is going on in a situation, gain clarity on your values, and explore your options and the potential consequences of different actions.For me to tell you what to do would be both disempowering, and unwise: nobody understands your life and your needs better than you! My role is to provide a space and supportive environment within which you can discover your own answers.
We are all unique and complex, with different defences, blind spots, resources, support and motivation. The scope of our problem and desired outcome varies.I don’t prescribe set courses of therapy or promise outcomes. It can take a number of sessions (for some, months) for us to build a working relationship where you feel trusting enough to be truly open and in 2-way communication with me. This is natural, especially if you have suffered relationships that have abused your trust.In general, an issue related to a specific event, decision, or intense period of time will resolve in fewer sessions, compared to prolonged problems, historical trauma, or deeper inquiry into ways of being. In truth, some work is lifelong, and we can find ourselves taking courses of therapy at various points when we either feel ready for peeling back another layer, or need arises, much as we make use of physical health services throughout our lives.Having a clear goal for therapy, and regular reviews within our work will help you to know when ending may be appropriate. If you are restricted by budget, it is important to discuss this with me at any time, but is especially helpful at initial consultation: we can plan our scope and focus towards a set number of sessions, and I also have a limited number of slots that I can offer at a reduced rate for those on lower incomes, if we can agree an amount that would be more sustainable for you to pay.
I’ve heard it said, “if you don’t have time to journal/reflect for an hour each day, then you don’t have time for therapy”! While that is a tough prescription, there are elements of truth that we can take from it.It can be difficult to remember what was spoken about from one week to the next, what moved us, or what we thought about afterwards that we “really must bring up next time”.
To this end, some kind of reflective journal, even if it’s brief bullets, can be useful to provide a sense of structure to your therapy. A quick glance before your session can help you prepare for how you want to begin.Also, don’t be afraid to tell me what is working, or not working. Speak up for your needs. Therapy is a safe and boundaried relationship with a professional. I like to think of it as a sandbox for testing new ways of being, where the risk is removed.
I am very open and inclusive of who and what I work with. The power of the right therapeutic relationship can be healing for many issues. A lot of my work is with anxiety, depression, low self-esteem, life transitions and relationship issues.Some areas that specialist help is recommended for would include people with mental health diagnosis such as psychosis, personality or eating disorders, and complex trauma, where they are experiencing acute related symptoms; or substance dependency where medically assisted withdrawal is required. Counselling can be supportive with these conditions but there are experts who have the knowledge and experience for critical support. I would require a referral from your main support provider and we would need to agree to a very clear scope and focus to work together.