Psychodynamic Therapy
This is the primary way I approach therapy.
Working psychodynamically involves trying to understand the underlying, often unconscious, factors that shape a person's emotional and psychological difficulties. Sessions are typically less structured, allowing space for the free expression of thoughts, feelings and associations as they arise.
Particular attention is given to early life experiences, family and attachment, dreams, and recurring relational patterns. Importantly, the therapeutic relationship itself is understood as a meaningful source of information, often bringing these patterns into the present. Exploring what unfolds between us can offer a powerful opportunity for insight, reflection and change.
Other Therapeutic Approaches
Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT): CBT helps people notice the influence that their thoughts (i.e., cognitions) and behaviours can have on their emotions. CBT is typically a structured, logical and goal directed therapeutic approach that aims to give people the skills to not only notice their unhelpful thinking and behavioural patterns, but subsequently change them to be more helpful, adaptive and realistic.
Exposure and Response Prevention for OCD: ERP is an evidence-based approach that involves gradually exposing individuals to thoughts and situations that trigger distress (exposure) while resisting the usual compulsive or avoidance behaviours (response prevention). The goal of ERP is to help people build tolerance to anxiety and uncertainty, reducing the impact that intrusive thoughts and fears have over their daily lives.
Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT): ACT places a strong emphasis on identifying one’s personal values and living a life in accordance with these values. It aims to help people to recognise and accept what is within their control and that while difficult emotions are part of everyone’s life, the influence that they have can be lessened. Mindfulness is also a core component of ACT.
Dialectical Behavioural Therapy (DBT): Similar to CBT and ACT, DBT is a skill-based intervention and involves learning about mindfulness, how to tolerate distressing emotions, how to regulate emotions when they are overwhelming and how to communicate and interact with others effectively.
Couples Therapy: A healthy relationship is often an essential foundation of good mental health. Couples therapy focuses on working with your partner on a range of aspects you are hoping to improve, including, communication, affection, intimacy and negotiation.
To book an appointment, please get in contact.