Areas of Expertise
Cognitive Behavioural Therapy
CBT looks at thinking patterns, underlying assumptions and core beliefs. CBT is often very structured in its approach and may involve some tasks at home, including thought diaries, behavioural experiments and journal writing. These activities can then be explored in more detail with your counsellor in your next session.
Psychodynamic
Psychodynamic therapy originates from the work of Freud, Bowlby and other key thinkers from modern day relational psychodynamic theory. Its primary focus is on our unconscious, inner world, which influences how we think, feel and behave, and often involves the exploration of early childhood experiences, attachment patterns, unconscious defence mechanisms and the intersubjective way in which therapist and client experience and relate to each other.
Person Centred Therapy
Person Centred Therapy was first developed by Carl Rogers and emphasises the development of a strong therapeutic relationship between therapist and client as the main vehicle of change. Relationships founded on unconditional positive regards, congruence, empathic understanding and acceptance offer a space where clients can explore their lived experience in the here and now, identifying their potential, and facilitating personal growth.
Couples Counselling
The couples therapy model that I work with has been designed by Juliet Grayson, and focuses on communication skills and relationship patterns. The emphasis is on helping couples to find more effective ways of communicating their needs to each other so that they are better able to have those needs met. I also incorporate aspects of Emotionally Focused Therapy, developed by Dr Sue Johnson which is grounded in attachment theory and focuses on improving the emotional connection between partners.
My Approach
There are many different types of talking therapies out there, and it can be difficult to know which one to pick.
I work in an integrative way, allowing me to offer different methods and approaches, depending on what your needs are.
I have experience in a wide range of issues, and regularly attend workshops and training courses in order to keep abreast of current research. As part of my lecturing post at the University of South Wales, I continue to develop my understanding of approaches and presenting issues through research.
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What to expect
Coming to counselling for the first time can be a daunting experience. In your initial session, we can talk about how we are going to work together and any particular anxieties you may have about counselling. We can also talk about what you would like to gain from counselling. You can then make the decision as to whether you'd like to book any further sessions.
It's up to you how many sessions you would like to have. You may find that you have achieved what you wanted to after only a few sessions, or you may feel that some longer term work would be of benefit.
