My Approach
Over the years I have studied many different approaches to Psychotherapy. My formal studies have included Gestalt and Mindfulness, EMDR, Psychodynamic Counselling and CBT. I have read widely and attended lectures and workshops on numerous other approaches. My own approach is a distillation of all these inputs.
There is strong clinical evidence for the value of compassion in our emotional lives. I try to bring compassion and curiosity to the issues which cause my clients difficulty. Equally, I support my clients to develop greater compassion and acceptance of themselves.
Working together I help my clients explore whatever is causing them to feel stuck or unhappy. This may involve working on current problems or returning to the patterns generated in childhood which may have created a blueprint for current difficulties. Through this investigation interesting patterns are often revealed. This process will require support, empathy and at times some gentle challenging to help the client find a new way of looking at their issues and themselves.
This approach coupled with various exercises in breathing and/or Mindfulness often prove helpful. Mindfulness is an approach which also has significant clinical research enabling us to live more fully in the here and now. As we cease to ruminate or catastrophize so our emotional health can really improve.
I am very interested in how we can remain open to or block our creativity. Outside of work I am a keen jazz musician, playing saxes and flute in various ensembles. I run Open Mics and also love cycling, reading and meditating.
Professional Qualifications
Certificate in Counselling & Groupwork: University of Cambridge SCE
Certificate in The Supervision of Counselling: Cambridge University SCE
Diploma in Gestalt Psychotherapy: Metanoia Institute
MSc in Gestalt Psychotherapy: Middlesex University
Mindfulness Teaching Certificate, Level 2: Bangor University
EMDR Level 3: Sandi Richman trainings
Professional Bodies
UKCP Registered Psychotherapist:www.psychotherapy.org.uk
BACP Accredited Psychotherapist www.bacp.co.uk
EMDR UK & Ireland www.emdrassociation.org.uk
Areas of Specialism
PTSD/ Trauma
Mindfulness and its application to clients issues
Sex & Food Addiction - see my book Love Myself Slim available on Amazon
Work Issues: Bullying & Harrassment, Disciplinaries, Grievances
Twickenham