People are complex and so are the issues they often bring to a session. These issues can include but are not limited to stress, low motivation, life changes, relationship difficulties, and improving mood. I can also help with building skills relating to emotional regulation, mindfulness, social skills, relaxation, and assertiveness.
Using a person-centred approach, within a Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) framework with elements of Acceptance Commitment Therapy (ACT), Motivational Interviewing (MI), Positive Psychology and Schema Therapy, my priority is to connect and listen to clients’ needs by helping them recognise their strengths.
Using my life and professional experience I aim to create a collaborative space when in session so that clients feel comfortable navigating solutions to their mental health issues.
CBT is an evidence-based psychological approach which operates on the basic premise that thoughts, emotions, physical sensations and behaviours are interconnected. This is a short-term therapy and most people will require between 15 to 20 sessions
The emphasis of this type of psychological treatment is on the thoughts (cognitions) which can influence how we feel and what we do. Therefore, changing the way we think can result in positive changes in emotions and behaviours.
CBT focuses on the “here and now” of problems and difficulties. This form of therapy has been shown to be effective in the treatment of both Mood and Anxiety Disorders by research conducted over many years.
The ACT approach recognises that unpleasant thoughts and feelings are an inescapable part of life. ACT involves accepting and detaching from these thoughts and feelings instead of fighting against them and being run by them. Another key aspect of ACT is exploring what is important and meaningful to you. This promotes life choices and actions to build a fulfilling life for yourself. A considerable amount of research has shown that ACT helps with many problems including low mood, anxiety and trauma recovery.
Acceptance and commitment therapy is a unique and creative model for both therapy and coaching, based on the innovative use of mindfulness and values. The aim is to maximise your potential for a rich, full, and meaningful life through value-based living.
Motivational Interviewing focuses on exploring and resolving ambivalence and centres on motivational processes within the individual that facilitate change. This method supports change in line with a client’s values and concerns.
Positive psychology focuses on strengths, resilience, inspiration, compassion, and wellbeing. It is an approach that emphasises the positive influences in an individual’s life. It provides an additional angle to the struggles that you may be experiencing, by looking at what you can do well, what is going well for you and what you are experiencing happiness and joy from.
Schema Therapy is an approach that focuses on understanding and addressing developmental origins of problems, especially where core emotional needs have been unmet. A range of techniques are used, including imagery, recognising internal conflict between different parts of yourself and attending to the emotional and physical impacts of events. Research shows that Schema Therapy is especially helpful for long-term and pervasive difficulties that have not been resolved with other types of therapy.
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