What is the difference between Psychotherapy and Counselling?
Although I use the terms 'counselling' and 'psychotherapy' interchangeably, counselling tends to refer to shorter term, time limited work whereas psychotherapy often involves a longer term, open ended agreement which enables the counsellor and client to work at a deeper level.
There are many different counselling and psychotherapy approaches. I have completed an integrative training which means that I do not adhere to one specific model but draw from several approaches. My practice is based on humanistic principles which emphasise the consideration of the whole person - body, feelings, intellect, soul, and actions.
I view each client as unique and so adapt my way of working to what will work best for you. Although much of our work together may simply involve talking about what is happening currently in your life, it may be important to talk about things that have happened in the past.
I will also be interested to understand how you feel physically as well as emotionally, since our bodies often hold emotions which we have been unable to express, and may use body oriented approaches such as relaxation techniques and breathwork. I may also invite you to work in creative ways via imagery, dreamwork and visualisations.
The most important aspect of my approach is that we work in a way which feels comfortable for you and that you take things at a pace which feels right for you.
When we are no longer able to change a situation, we are challenged to change ourselves. (Hal Brickman)