General Approach

For me, psychotherapy is about working with the whole of the person, including the body, mind, emotions and spirit (whatever this might mean to you).  Wholeness also includes the various systems within which we live and are shaped by.

I believe that everyone is unique, so I tailor my approach to meet each person’s individual needs while working at a pace that is right for them.

I see the relationship that develops between therapist and client as a key tool for change.

I see my role in therapy as more of a facilitator than ‘expert’, since each person holds a deeper intelligence that knows where s/he needs to go and how to get there, and will do so given the right conditions of warmth, attunement, safety and empathy.

I see psychotherapy as a form of soulwork. By “soul”, I am referring to that part of ourselves that values depth, mystery, embodiment and relatedness. I believe that the “work” of  psychotherapy is less about self-improvement and fixing problems and more about taking the risk to trust and listen to that part of ourselves that sees beyond the ordinary or everyday. This can enable us to move beyond what we think we know, creating the possibility to live a more meaningful, expanded and embodied life.

Finally, I enjoy working with people in a way that supports them to develop more confidence in their ability to make creative choices.

Influences

My approach is embodied and relational. It is also informed by a variety of theoretical techniques and influences. These include: Buddhist, psychodynamic and humanistic perspectives, my practice of mindfulness, yoga and dance, as well as continuing professional development and personal life experiences.