Psychotherapy and Counselling
Psychotherapy and counselling are terms which are often used interchangeably and, in many respects, there is a lot of overlap. It will look very similar on the surface, I will be using the same techniques and theory but there is a distinction between the two.
Counselling might be seen as being shorter term where you have a specific issue you would like to work through such as a bereavement or life transition. Psychotherapy however, is a deeper exploration and is a way of addressing issues which you may have felt held back by for many years, often leading back to your formative experience, such as low self esteem, lack of confidence or ongoing difficulties within relationships.
I work face -to-face and online.
What to expect from Psychotherapy and Counselling
If you have never had therapy or counselling before you may understandably have some nervousness or reservations about it. It can feel like a really big step, especially if there are things you have never spoken to someone else about. This is entirely understandable. Rest assured we will always work at your pace and there will be no pressure on you to talk about anything you don’t feel ready to.
During the initial consultation we will spend time exploring your reasons for seeking therapy and I will ask you about your history and your current situation to get a sense of who you are. During that time you will also get a sense of who I am and how I work.
As I now offer EMDR (please see separate page) it may be that I suggest you would benefit for this approach but the decision is ultimately yours.
Subsequent sessions will be free form and led by you. I have an exploratory approach and we will work with whatever you decide to bring on the day. It may be directly concerning your initial reasons for seeking therapy or something unrelated. The time is yours to use as you wish.
There can be an enormous amount of value in knowing that there is a regular time dedicated entirely to you for you to explore all that you want or need to without fear of judgement or impact.