MY SPECIALTIES
INDIVIDUAL PSYCHOTHERAPY
The individual psychotherapy approach is centered around building a strong therapeutic relationship with you. I provide a safe, supportive space where you can explore your thoughts and feelings. Through this approach, we'll work together to identify the root causes of your struggles and develop strategies to help you overcome them.
ACCEPTANCE & COMMITMENT THERAPY (ACT)
Through ACT, you will learn to navigate life's ups and downs with resilience and authenticity. ACT suggests that much of human suffering is caused by ‘experiential avoidance'; the natural tendency to want to get rid of unpleasant/unwanted internal experiences (e.g., thoughts, feelings, sensations, memories). Instead, you will be guided in developing 'psychological flexibility'; the ability to be in the present moment, to accept and embrace difficult internal experiences without a struggle, while doing what truly matters by aligning your actions with your values.
DIALECTICAL BEHAVIOUR THERAPY (DBT)
DBT is a modified form of CBT adapted for people who experience emotions very intensely, find relationships challenging, and engage in unhelpful or destructive behaviours. DBT seeks a balance between acceptance of a reality that may be painful & not of our choosing, and changing our unhelpful behaviours. By learning skills of emotional regulation, interpersonal effectiveness, distress tolerance, and mindfulness, you will be equiped with the tools to navigate complex emotions and foster healthier connections.
COGNITIVE BEHAVIOURAL THERAPY (CBT)
CBT is a widely used approach in psychology. It proposes that our thoughts, feelings (emotional and physical), and behaviours are all interconnected within the context of our environment. By working together to identify and understand how these connections are causing distress, we can make changes in one or more of the individual areas to create improvement.
COMPASSION FOCUSSED THERAPY (CFT)
CFT is another invaluable tool in the therapeutic toolkit. Self-criticism and shame shows up frequently when humans are struggling. Together, we'll explore your relationship with self-criticism and develop a more compassionate outlook towards yourself. By fostering self-kindness and understanding, you'll be better equipped to navigate the challenges that arise during therapy and beyond. Research shows self-compassionate people are better able to be resilient in difficult situations, are less afraid of failure, engage in healthier behaviours, and in relationships are more attentive, caring, supportive and willing to compromise in conflicts.
RELATIONSHIP ISSUES AND ATTACHMENT
Building and nurturing healthy relationships often starts with understanding your relationship/attachment style. We draw from attachment-based theories to help you explore the dynamics of your relationships, promoting secure attachments and improved interpersonal interactions.
DEPRESSION
Depression can cast a shadow over your days, zapping away joy and motivation. Our therapy sessions will provide a safe environment to explore the root causes of your depression and develop strategies to gradually lift that weight. Through integrative approaches drawing from various therapeutic models, such as ACT, CFT and Psychotherapy, (see opposite) we'll work together to create a path towards healing and renewed vitality.
ANXIETY
Anxiety can sometimes feel like an overwhelming wave, making everyday tasks seem daunting. The physical experiences of anxiety can feel particularly unpleasant. Whether it's generalised anxiety, social anxiety, or panic attacks, I specialise in using evidence-based therapies like ACT, CBT and DBT to help you gain practical tools to manage anxious thoughts & feelings and regain control over your life.
OBSESSIVE COMPULSIVE DISORDER (OCD)
OCD can be incredibly distressing, causing intrusive thoughts and compelling rituals that disrupt daily life. Using techniques from ACT, CBT and other modalities, we'll collaborate to challenge the grip of OCD and cultivate healthier coping mechanisms. Our goal is to empower you to regain control over your thoughts and behaviors, allowing you to live a more fulfilling life.
TRAUMA AND GRIEF
Trauma refers to distressing events or experiences that overwhelm an individual's ability to cope. It can result from various incidents such as accidents, abuse, natural disasters, or loss. Trauma often leads to emotional, psychological, and even physical reactions that can persist long after the event itself. Grief, on the other hand, is the natural response to loss, particularly the loss of someone close or something deeply valued. It involves a range of emotions, thoughts, and behaviors as individuals navigate through the process of adjusting to life without what or who they've lost. Both trauma and grief can impact mental well-being, relationships, and overall quality of life.