Person Centred
Person-Centred Therapy, developed by Carl Rogers, is at the heart of my approach. I believe that reality is subjective and deeply personal, shaped by your unique experiences and perceptions. In our work together, I strive to embody Rogers' core conditions: empathy, by deeply understanding your world as you see it; congruence, by being genuine and transparent in our therapeutic relationship; and unconditional positive regard, by valuing and accepting you without judgment. These principles create a safe and supportive space where you can explore your thoughts and feelings freely.
As Rogers expressed in his paradox, "When I accept myself just as I am, then I can change." This reflects the idea that self-acceptance is the foundation for meaningful growth. By supporting you in embracing yourself fully, your strengths, struggles, and imperfections we reduce the inner conflict that often holds us back. Acceptance does not mean resignation but rather a starting point for transformation, where self-awareness and compassion can foster genuine change. It is within this environment of understanding and acceptance that growth becomes possible, allowing you to move toward a life that feels more authentic and fulfilling.
CBT
CBT represents the evolution of therapeutic approaches to psychological challenges, with second-wave CBT forming the foundation of many modern practices. Second-wave CBT introduced a focus on the relationship between thoughts, emotions, and behaviors. It emphasises identifying and challenging unhelpful thought patterns, such as catastrophising or self-critical thinking, and reframing them to promote healthier emotional responses and behaviors. This approach provides practical tools to manage challenges, offering structure and strategies to break cycles of negativity and foster more adaptive ways of thinking and living.
Third-wave CBT takes this foundation further, adopting a more holistic and compassionate perspective. A key development within third-wave CBT is Compassion Focused Therapy (CFT), which draws inspiration from Buddhist psychology. The Dalai Lama teaches that compassion involves having the courage to face distress head-on, alongside a deep commitment to take meaningful action to ease suffering. CFT focuses on cultivating self-compassion and kindness to address self-criticism, shame, and emotional distress. By fostering a compassionate mindset, individuals are encouraged to face their suffering with understanding and warmth, creating the space for healing and growth. Through mindfulness and the practice of compassion, CFT helps individuals develop resilience and emotional balance, allowing them to engage with their struggles in a nurturing and transformative way.
Psychodynamic
Psychodynamic theory focuses on understanding how our past experiences, particularly those in early relationships, shape our present thoughts, feelings, and behaviors. Central to this approach is attachment theory, which explores the bonds we form with caregivers in childhood and how these influence our ability to connect with others throughout life. These early relationships provide a blueprint for how we view ourselves and others, often affecting the way we relate to people in adulthood.
Attachment theory helps us recognise patterns in relationships, such as a tendency to avoid closeness, feel overly dependent, or fear abandonment. These patterns are often rooted in the attachment styles we developed as children in response to the care we received. By bringing these unconscious dynamics into awareness, we can begin to understand how they play out in our present relationships and how they may contribute to feelings of disconnection, insecurity, or conflict.
Psychodynamic therapy also explores defence mechanisms—strategies we unconsciously use to protect ourselves from emotional pain or distress. These might include avoidance, denial, or projecting feelings onto others. While these defences often serve a purpose in protecting us from overwhelming emotions, they can also limit our ability to engage authentically with ourselves and others.
By working through these patterns and defences in a safe and supportive space, psychodynamic therapy helps you gain deeper insight into your emotional world. This process empowers you to break free from unhelpful cycles, build healthier relationships, and live a life more aligned with your true self. Recognising how the past informs the present is not about blame but about understanding, offering the possibility for growth, healing, and more meaningful connections.
Do You Suffer From?
- Anxiety and Stress
- Depression and Low Mood
- Trauma
- Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD)
- Relationship Issues
- Grief and Loss
- Self-Esteem and Confidence Issues
- Addiction and Substance Abuse
- Anger Management
- Life Transitions (e.g., career changes, divorce)
- Chronic Illness and Pain
- Identity and Self-Exploration
- Family Conflicts
- Suicidal Thoughts
- Burnout and Work-Related Stress
- Abuse (Emotional, Physical, Sexual)
- Social Anxiety and Isolation
- Sleep Problems
- Shame & Guilt
- Intrusive Thoughts
Training
- First class honours BSc Undergraduate degree in Counselling and Psychotherapy with clinical practice
- Clinical Trauma Professional Level II
- ASIST (Applied Suicide Intervention Skills Training)
- Life after Loss
- Domestic violence
- Online & Telephone