My Approach

"Be yourself - everyone else is already taken" - Oscar Wilde

My main theoretical approach is Person-Centred. Carl Rogers was a Psychologist and the founding father of Client-Centred Therapy in 1951 which he later referred to as Person-Centred Therapy. His approach provided a warmer, more personable approach in contrast to Freudian Psychoanalysis.

He described 3 core conditions to facilitate change which are empathic understanding, unconditional positive regard (being non-judgmental) and congruence (honesty). The idea is that if a Counsellor adopts this way of being and the client receives/feels the benefit of this understanding that this is enough to facilitate lasting change.

My degree in Counselling was Integrative which allowed me to encompass aspects of other theoretical approaches into my way of working, this included Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT). I sometimes use CBT techniques to assist during the counselling process however, this is entirely dependent upon the relationship I have with the client. Any intervention I use during the counselling process is used with the sole intention of acting in complete service to the client.

I trust the client to explore material which is meaningful to them and work alongside them rather than lead. I work with clients with an aim to understand as fully as possible what it is like to walk in their shoes. Counselling is often a huge step for people and is acknowledgement that someone is asking for help. I work in a caring and non-judgmental way and believe that everyone is capable of change and growth if there is a desire to do so.

Issues I am experienced in and work with include:

Depression
Anxiety and Phobias
Relationship Difficulties
Infidelity/Affairs
Life Changes/Transitions
Difficulties with Self-Esteem
Eating Issues
Obsessive Compulsive Disorder (OCD)
Bereavement/Loss
Professional/Career Issues
College/Graduate School Issues
Medical and Health Concerns
Sexual Abuse
Stress Management
Traumatic Experiences
Emotional Abuse
Spirituality
Gender Issues
LGBTQ Related Issues
Overwhelming/Unfamiliar feelings