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 in an individual 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.

​

I have worked as a Professional Counsellor since 2008 and after completing a two year Professional Diploma decided to further my knowledge and completed a BA (Hons) in Counselling.  My degree 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