How I Work

I have worked in private practice for ten years and continue to learn from my clients with interest.  My first aim is to gain a clear in-depth understanding of the problems experienced so that the most appropriate help may be offered. Central to my therapeutic work is in paying attention to the quality of the relationship between us.

Counselling generally takes three phases:

1. To understand and explore the problem
2. To look at what the person would like to change or manage differently
3. To work together on manageable strategies to bring about change

I have a special interest in helping adults and young people work through painful relational issues that stem from trauma and abuse, unresolved attachment, gender and sexuality.  Other areas of specialty relate to stress and life transitions, self-esteem, depression, anxiety, panic attacks, grief and loss.

A number of approaches are used in my work and I consider carefully in selecting the most suitable intervention or way of working with the person at that time.  My way of working is influenced by Humanistic Therapy.  This therapy is concerned with personal growth, and it encourages people to think about their feelings and take responsibility for their thoughts and actions.  Emphasis is on self-development and in achieving one's highest potential.  This therapy may be described as holistic, or looking at the person as whole.

Another is in the practice of Dialectical Behavioural Therapy (DBT), which grew from Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT).  This model uses techniques that focus on problem solving.  Therapist and client explore an acceptance that the behaviour, although damaging, may be the only way they have learnt to deal with intense emotions which might have led to short term benefits.

Solution Focused Brief Therapy promotes positive change rather than dwelling on past problems.  Clients are encouraged to focus positively on what they do well, set goals and work out how to achieve them.  Generally speaking, people feel encouraged when they find this works for them and it generates further progress as they manage the previously unmanageable issues.

As a registered accredited counsellor, I maintain my continuing professional development (CPD) and attend regular clinical supervision, which is a BACP requirement for counsellors at all levels of experience for the duration of their practice.  This provides clinical guidance to the therapist so that the client may receive the best service from the counsellor.  A complaints procedure is also in place.

I abide by BACP's Ethical Framework and adhere to their principles and practice.  You can download a copy of this document for your reference here (PDF).