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Ways of Working
I work integratively, drawing on a range of recognised therapeutic approaches to support you in a way that feels appropriate, collaborative, and responsive to your needs. The approaches outlined here offer different ways of understanding and working with thoughts, emotions, and experiences. We may use one approach, or a combination, depending on what feels most helpful for you and the issues you wish to explore.
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Person-Centred Therapy
Person-Centred Therapy (PCT), developed by Carl Rogers, places the therapeutic relationship at the heart of psychological change. This approach emphasises the importance of a genuine, accepting, and empathic connection between therapist and client. The relationship is grounded in key conditions: unconditional positive regard, congruence (genuineness), and empathic understanding. Within this safe and non-judgemental space, individuals are encouraged to explore their lived experiences in the present moment, fostering greater self-awareness and emotional resilience. PCT trusts in each person’s innate capacity for growth, and by experiencing a relationship built on acceptance and authenticity, clients are supported to move toward healing, fulfilment, and self-actualisation.
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Existentialism
Existentialist theory holds that we are born without a predetermined purpose, but with the capacity to create our own meaning, direction, and sense of personal freedom. It encourages individuals to confront life’s uncertainties and embrace the freedom—and responsibility—that comes with shaping one’s own path. A core tenet of existentialism is that personal freedom, conscious choice, and individual responsibility are vital to the journey of self-discovery and the search for meaning. This approach invites deep reflection on values, identity, and existence, empowering individuals to live authentically and make purposeful decisions aligned with their true selves, even in the face of life’s challenges.
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Psychodynamic Therapy
Psychodynamic therapy has its roots in the work of Freud, Bowlby, and contemporary relational psychodynamic theory. It centres on the unconscious inner world that shapes how we think, feel, and behave—often outside of our awareness. This approach involves exploring early life experiences, attachment patterns, and unconscious defence mechanisms, as well as how these dynamics surface within the therapeutic relationship itself. A key feature is the intersubjective process, where both therapist and client observe and reflect on their relational experiences in the room. Through this deep exploration, individuals can gain lasting insight, emotional clarity, and greater freedom from entrenched patterns.
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Cognitive Behavioural Therapy
CBT (Cognitive Behavioural Therapy) explores thinking patterns, underlying assumptions, and core beliefs that influence how we feel and behave. It is often a structured, goal-focused approach that may involve practical tasks both during and between sessions, such as thought diaries, journaling, and behavioural experiments. These exercises help identify unhelpful patterns and test alternative ways of thinking or responding. Completed activities are then explored in more detail with your therapist, offering insight, reinforcing learning, and supporting meaningful change. CBT can be especially effective for managing anxiety, depression, and stress by equipping you with tools to better understand and manage your inner experiences.
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Sand Tray Therapy
Sand tray therapy is a creative, non-verbal approach that helps individuals express and explore their inner world. Using a tray of sand and miniature objects, clients create symbolic scenes that reflect thoughts, emotions, and experiences. This safe, visual process allows unconscious material to emerge, often revealing powerful insights. Clients may work silently or reflect verbally, with each tray offering a unique window into their inner life. Especially helpful for those who find words difficult, it supports trauma processing, emotional clarity, and personal growth. Over time, evolving trays can mark healing, transformation, and a deeper understanding of the self.