How I work
I work collaboratively with you so that you can build a deeper understanding of yourself and feel empowered to listen and respond to your needs.
On this page I go into a bit more detail about my style of therapy and coaching, and how I work. However, if it sounds confusing or too much like 'therapy speak', I can also sum it up very simply: I believe you are the expert of yourself, it's my job to find out the ways you like to work and collaborate with you so that you feel comfortable to feedback if you want to do things differently. If you want to learn more about who you are, what you need and where you're going next, you've come to the right place.
Now, here's more detail: I trained at the Iron Mill College in Exeter as an Integrative Counsellor. My approach is influenced by the person-centred philosophy (Carl Rogers), which means I’m led by my client and three conditions underpin my work: empathy, non-judgement and congruence (being real and authentic). I am a pluralistic, relational therapist trained in a number of therapy styles, which I integrate, or blend, into my practice, depending on what is right for my client. I am particularly drawn to Transactional Analysis and Gestalt as modalities but I'm also influenced by Attachment Theory, Erskine's Relational Needs and Neurobiology.
I'm also an EMCC Global Coach Practitioner, currently studying for my Senior Level 7 qualification on a course designed for qualified counsellors and psychotherapists.
Human personality is formed in relationship… Our sense of ourselves, be that strong and robust or fragile and unstable, is dependent on, and formed by, that relationship with self and other.
Lapworth & Sills
There is no ’fixing’ in therapy or coaching. It is a process of connection. I walk alongside my clients, building a safe, healthy relationship so they can explore and understand themselves better. This helps clients connect to themselves.
Clio
Tools and techniques
I believe events in the past can influence the way a person thinks, feels and behaves in the present. Using tools such as timelines and narrative therapy can help you explore these past stories and notice patterns of behaviour.
Our response to stress (when our body goes into survival or fight/flight mode) can affect our behaviour and relationships. Together we can start to notice these reactions and find tools to calm. These tools differ from person to person - it's about finding what works for you as an individual.
Relationship is at the heart of what I do
I really believe in the power of connection. It is one of my values. Humans are social, we are ‘wired to connect’ and that's why therapy and coaching can be so effective - the relationship we build together can be both supportive but also create an environment which really allows us to think deeply about ourselves and our lives.
We are wired to connect.
Daniel Goleman
Therapy and coaching create an opportunity to build a trusting relationship. This can then help you trust your own process and feel safe and heard enough to express, reflect, become more self aware and connect to yourself.
As a dual-skilled therapist and coach I can attune to what you need from our sessions. Together we can work out whether that's therapy, coaching or therapeutic coaching. We can also adapt as you move forward. However, you can be safe in the knowledge that I have the training and experience to support you as both a therapist or coach.
