Training and Modalities
My training was completed at Roehampton University within the School of Human and Life Sciences and I was awarded a BSc Honours degree in Integrative Counselling. My core training has been in Psychodynamic, Person Centred and Existential Phenomenology. Utilising different modalities allows me to work effectively with clients and their presenting issues. The following is a brief outline so that you can get a sense of how I work.
Psychodynamic Counselling – is not as long term as Psychoanalysis. In a counselling setting, the psychodynamic counsellor places importance on the presenting issues but also places great importance on past experiences. The counsellor aims to assist the client to understand how past experiences may have contributed to present day issues.
Person Centred– Non-directivity is central to the person centred approach. It allows the client to take control and feel empowered in the process of therapy. In order for therapeutic change to take place, the counsellor applies the core conditions of genuineness, empathy and unconditional positive regard to the client.
Existential Phenomenology– Focuses on concerns that are rooted in an individual’s existence. It helps people look at responsibility and freedom of choice in moving forward and changing their way of being.
Cognitive Behavioural Therapy - CBT explores the thinking, feelings and behaviour of an individual. It focuses on the here and now but also on the past. We explore core beliefs and living rules and the expectations that arise from these beliefs and rules. This is a talking therapy that is recommended by the National Institute for Health and Care Excellence.
Transactional Analysis - This modality focuses on the problems that arise in communication and relationships. It helps the individual identify repeated patterns of interactions with others that result in negative feelings. The idea is to strengthen the adult in us and to achieve 'complimentary transactions' as opposed to 'crossed transactions' which often result in a breakdown in communication.
I have worked for a children's charity offering counselling services to the parents and teachers of the child being supported. This was seen as an extension of support for the child and their families. I have experience in a not for profit organisation and the private sector.
