My Approach to Therapy
My approach to therapy is deeply influenced by the work of Irvin Yalom and Carl Rogers, alongside the principles of Internal Family Systems (IFS). Yalom’s existential perspective highlights the importance of authenticity, meaning-making, and deep human connection, while Rogers’ person-centred approach underscores the transformative impact of genuine presence, empathy, and unconditional positive regard. IFS complements these perspectives through its emphasis on approaching our inner world with curiosity and compassion, recognising that even the parts of ourselves we struggle with have developed for a reason. Together, these ideas reflect my belief that meaningful change grows from an atmosphere of trust, acceptance, and self-exploration.
Guided by a collaborative and transparent approach, I work in the here-and-now, exploring the patterns and relational dynamics that shape our lives, while also looking to the past with compassion to understand how we got here. Care is thoughtfully tailored, drawing from a range of therapeutic modalities to suit individual needs. I see therapy as a shared journey of discovery, where we can better understand ourselves, make space for conflicting feelings and experiences, and develop a more compassionate relationship with who we are. The goal is not simply to overcome difficulties, but to understand our stories, reconnect with our inherent capacity for growth, and move forward with greater clarity, freedom, and resilience.
Therapeutic Modalities
As a psychologist, I draw from a variety of therapeutic modalities to provide personalized care that meets each client's unique needs. While my approach is always tailored to the individual, there are core elements from several modalities that I incorporate into much of my work, as they align with my professional and personal beliefs about the human psyche. You’ll find descriptions of some of these modalities below.
If you have a preference for certain approaches, techniques, or even a specific focus for our sessions, feel free to share this. My goal is to ensure our work together is as effective and meaningful as possible.
Internal Family Systems
I use Internal Family Systems (IFS) as my preferred approach for trauma healing where appropriate. IFS understands that difficult experiences can leave parts of ourselves carrying painful emotions, beliefs, and memories, while other parts develop protective strategies to prevent us from being hurt again. These protective responses often make sense in the context of what we have experienced, even when they create difficulties in the present. Rather than trying to suppress or overcome these responses, IFS offers a way to approach them with curiosity and compassion, helping us understand their purpose and gently work through the pain beneath them. I value its emphasis on creating internal safety, building self-understanding, and fostering a more compassionate relationship with ourselves as a foundation for lasting change.
Cognitive Behavioural Therapy
I use Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) as a foundational approach to mental health and well-being. CBT offers a practical framework for understanding how thoughts, feelings, and behaviors interact, making it an excellent starting point for exploring well-being. It also provides a pathway into other evidence-based approaches, such as Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Dialectical Behaviour Therapy (DBT), and Schema Therapy. While I value the structure and clarity CBT provides, I rarely use it in isolation. I believe that other modalities often offer deeper explanatory power, particularly when integrating past experiences with present challenges to create meaningful and lasting change.
Schema Therapy
Acceptance and Commitment Therapy
I resonate strongly with the in-depth framework of Schema Therapy, which provides a powerful way to understand the core beliefs and enduring life themes—known as schemas—that develop from early life experiences. These schemas are often embedded subconsciously, driving our decision-making, shaping how we interpret events, and influencing the way we understand ourselves and the world. Schema Therapy combines cognitive, emotional, and experiential techniques to help identify and change these deeply ingrained patterns. Schema therapy also involves examining whether core emotional needs were met in both childhood and adulthood, working to heal unmet needs while challenging unhelpful schemas, cultivating healthier perspectives, and building a stronger, more compassionate connection with yourself. This approach allows us to integrate past experiences with present needs, fostering meaningful and lasting growth.
Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) is integrated to help navigate life’s challenges in alignment with core values. ACT emphasizes working in line with what truly matters, guiding actions accordingly, even during difficult hardships and trying times. This values-based approach provides a clear direction and fosters a sense of fulfillment and meaning. A key element of ACT is mindfulness, which involves being fully present in the moment without judgment. This helps to create space between experiences and reactions, allowing for more thoughtful and less automatic responses. Additionally, ACT encourages working with the self as context, a perspective that involves seeing thoughts and feelings as transient experiences, rather than over-identifying with them. This promotes psychological flexibility, enabling the embrace of the full range of emotions while staying true to values and long-term goals. Mindfulness is valued as an integral part of the approach, as it cultivates greater awareness and presence throughout the work together.
Dialectical Behaviour Therapy (DBT)
DBT is a highly manualised therapy that offers a variety of practical, hands-on skills. I like to incorporate these skills because they provide useful strategies for managing emotions, improving relationships, and navigating challenges. This includes skills for effective communication, emotional regulation, distress tolerance, and interpersonal effectiveness, all of which help in handling everyday life with more confidence and balance.
