Individual Therapy

WHAT YOU CAN EXPECT

Many clients come to therapy with a sense that they are somewhat ‘stuck’, unhappy or anxious, perhaps repeating patterns of behaviour or experiencing problems such as difficulties in relationships, conflict with others, and self-esteem issues. Psychological therapy typically explores the connections between patterns of emotions, thoughts, and behaviours across contexts and experiences. This promotes a better understanding of how we view ourselves and others, creates opportunities to change and enhances our choices about how we relate with others.

Developing awareness of ourselves increases our choices to act in ways more consistent with our values and goals. This process is a partnership between client and therapist.

Central to a happy life are concepts of finding flow, exploring our reasons for being, accepting imperfection in ourselves and others, finding gratitude and compassion, learning to tolerate psychological discomfort, and finding some resilience.

My focus is on supporting clients so they can ultimately manage their own condition or situation.

Navigating and nurturing healthy relationships with others is also an important part of successful therapy.

NEUROSCIENCE AND THE MIND-BODY CONNECTION

The brain and mind are central to how we think, feel, and behave, and to our overall health. At times we may focus on the interaction between the brain and body in managing stress, anxiety, lowered mood, and other mental health concerns.  This is especially relevant when considering the impacts of previous traumas on current health and well-being and on our patterns of attachment and relationships.

MAKING CHANGES PERMANENT

When real changes are made to unhelpful life patterns it is possible to generate a greater sense of sense freedom and confidence in oneself.  Changes like these are never linear but rather come with ups and downs, and practice is key to getting better at anything.

EVIDENCE BASED TREATMENT: TYPES OF ISSUES YOU MAY BE EXPERIENCING

Many people come to therapy with a sense that something is wrong, or that they are repeating old patterns which are no longer helpful, often they can’t put their finger on the problem or don’t know where to start.

These concerns may include:

  • Issues in relating and relationships

  • Couple and relationships therapy

  • Adjustment to change

  • Managing life transitions

  • Anxiety

  • Assertiveness

  • Depression

  • Grief and loss

  • Sleep problems

  • Stress and burnout

  • Relationship concerns at home or at work

  • Personal growth

  • Trauma and post-traumatic stress

  • Serious or chronic illness

  • Persistent / chronic pain

  • Issues from childhood

MY THERAPEUTIC APPROACHES INCLUDE:

  • I apply a variety of psychological approaches best suited to client presentations.

  • Psychodynamic approach

  • Interpersonal therapy

  • Cognitive therapies (CBT)

  • Trauma informed approach (Eye Movement Desensitisation Reprocessing (EMDR) and Cognitive Processing Therapy (CPT)

  • Mindfulness based therapies including relaxation and breath work.

  • Acceptance based therapies (ACT)

  • Gottman Couples Therapy

If you decide to proceed, please contact me to discuss your options and for a preliminary discussion.