Integrative Counselling

There are different types of counselling. I am an integrative counsellor, which means I draw theory and tools from various counselling modalities, so I can offer a personalised approach to each client or couple I work with. Depending on your situation, your reasons for seeking counselling, and your goals for therapy, I may use elements of Humanistic Therapy, Psychodynamic Therapy, Cognitive Behavioural Therapy, Inner Child Therapy, Internal Family Systems and Transactional Analysis. It doesn’t matter whether you know about these different modalities, but you may find this webpage on types of therapy helpful if you want more information on different counselling modalities.

Counselling Relationship

The relationship between the counsellor/therapist and their client is the most important foundation for healing and change in counselling. Without a safe, non-judgmental, trusting therapeutic relationship, the potential for change is minimal. Part of the work of counselling is developing this relationship where you can then feel supported as you explore the difficulties you are having and find ways to heal and develop.

Whole Person Approach

I believe the different elements of who we are all work together and influence each other. If one is not functioning well, the whole system will struggle to function. I aim to work with the whole person, looking at difficulties in different elements of who we are to understand the problems and find options for healing and positive change.

You may be experiencing difficulties in some of these areas: A small pile of 5 stones resting on two large boulders with a sea sky horizon background

  • physical symptoms
  • emotions
  • behaviour or choices
  • relationships
  • thoughts and values
  • the spirit/soul

Where Problems Come From

I believe humans all have deep needs for unconditional love, acceptance and a sense of purpose in their lives. Where we are lacking in these things, we form ideas (beliefs) as to where we can find fulfilment. These beliefs lead us to choose self-protective behaviour, to withdraw from relationships or to become too dependant on others. When these behaviours don’t bring us the fulfilment we need, we may feel anxious, angry, guilty or depressed and our bodies can suffer.

Finding Healing

Physical, emotional and behavioural symptoms can indicate our beliefs regarding fulfilment. Looking at childhood relationships and experiences can also provide clues. By identifying and examining our beliefs, we can evaluate them and, where necessary, replace them with more healthy beliefs. We can find sources of true fulfilment which will allow us more freedom to enjoy life.

Because the seeds for many of our thoughts and behaviours were planted in early life, it can take time and patience to uncover them, root them out, plant new ones and watch them grow. I am prepared to work with my clients for as few or many sessions as they need, and the door is always open for you to come back for more sessions later too. In counselling, I aim to equip you with understanding, strategies and self-compassion, so you can continue to find healing and positive change beyond counselling and throughout the rest of your life.