How I work | Therapeutic models

I draw on the top down, bottom-up approach within my work. Creating a flow of work dependant on each person’s individual needs. I use a range of techniques and draw from a range of theoretical systems to inform my work with each client, which largely comes from these models:

Psychodynamic – this theory is based on the understanding that our past experiences and early relationships set a blueprint for our lives known as unconscious processes. It provides a link between how the past impacts the present. If, for example, we experienced toxic relationships in our early life, it is likely that we will repeat the same patterns going forward. Therapy allows us to unearth these experiences to unlock the patterns to make way for healthier systems in a present life.

Internal Family Systems – this is a model based on the theory that we are all made up of “subpersonalities” or “parts” that interact with each other. In an ideal world, all these parts are accepted and so as we develop, we build a natural balance of these parts based on our innate sensitivities and world around us to suit who we are. If, however, our experiences led us to have to hide certain “vulnerable” parts, we become off balance and continue to live a life which we feel more and more disconnected to or feeling the shame of being seen. The work allows us to reconnect and embrace all parts back together, to create a life more fulfilling now.

Trauma Informed –I believe trauma to be at the heart of this work so understanding what it is and how it impacts is essential. I work on the basis that our symptoms are adaptations of how we survived our traumatic experiences. Trauma is “not what happened to you, but what happened inside of you as a result”. Trauma informed work recognises the need for physical and mental safety within therapy in order to heal from the wounds of the traumatic experiences.

Somatic experiencing – this body centred approach that aims to modify the bodies response to stress and traumas by working carefully to notice certain sensations within the body; to allow the body to move through the emotional, physical experience towards a sense of safety and security

Transpersonal – I am an avid believer of there being more then we are cognitively aware, so this theorical approach draws on what is outside of us – dreams, spirituality, higher powers, a sense of deeper connections or experiences. In my experience this has been fundamental to accessing a greater sense of contentment, healing and freedom within ourselves.

Existentialism – part of my initial training, this draws on great philosophical works that deepen our understanding of ourselves, our place in the world, our personal responsibilities and our freedoms. This approach centres on us finding purpose and meaning within our lives to help us access a greater freedom

Relational – finally and perhaps most important of all, I use myself as a ‘tool’ in the sessions, allowing myself to feel with you, picking up on what is said and what is not said. Fully aware of the therapeutic relationship being the most fundamental part of the work, I work to build up the trust and security to create a space between us that is holding, creative and free.

Having been privileged to work with many different clients I am aware of the unique human, with their unique story within every session. I remain curious and open to explore the meaning for the client and keep my own judgements at the door. I keep on top of my own therapy and supervision to enable this space to be free of my own projections. I am aware of the importance of free will and choice and therefore will always treat you as the master of your destiny. I will offer suggestions, guide you through the work, and impart the knowledge I have. I will use my training and experience to help make sense of the tangled knots that appear both physically and cognitively. I will use my innate sensitivity to provide a balance of space and challenge: like with physical exercise there’s times your body needs a HIIT workout, there’s times for yoga, there’s time for walking and there’s time for resting: it’s the same process with therapy so I keep attuning to your needs. I will remain consistent and committed, working with you in the sessions, to appreciate that it is you that is doing the work outside of them.  I remain absolutely passionate about and dedicated to this work. I believe in absolutely everybody’s capacity for healing.