MY APPROACH TO PSYCHOTHERAPY

WHAT TO EXPECT​

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I provide in-person and online individual therapy for young adults and adults, within short and long-term timeframes, depending on what is required.  Ultimately, I work with individuals who are searching for a different kind of connection with themselves.  My guiding principles are collaborative patience, compassion, courage and commitment, from which intentions for the work can be met. I use an integration of therapies and methods, creating a new therapy model for each individual, determined by their nature, willingness for change and what the therapeutic process unearths.

I provide an environment in which the parts of a person that are rarely seen by others but fundamental to how they interact with their lives can be freely explored.  I combine empathy and instinct whilst challenging dysfunctional beliefs and behaviours through honest questions and perceptions.  I work to instil self-awareness, using a holistic approach to all cases and the foundation of my work is based on movement towards recovery.

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THERAPIES & METHODS​

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Existential  |  Exploration to establish meaning, purpose and value systems in life and relationships

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Psychoeducation | Develop understanding in psychological health and wellbeing, clarifying ways to cope and thrive

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Psychodynamic |  Examine the past to understand how it affects present beliefs and behaviour

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Psychosomatic Awareness  |  Unify the body with the mind to process and experience difficult emotions: develop self-awareness, create physiologic change, enlighten decision making processes to determine future action

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Attachment  |  Understand how early relationships shape current relational patterns

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Solution Focused  |  Draw on established character strength, resource and ability as a way to move forward 

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Trauma-Informed  |  A system-wide approach that acknowledges trauma’s impact, supports recovery, and prevents re-traumatisation 

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Post-Traumatic Growth |  Exploration of the adversity as the catalyst for profound transformation of self-understanding

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Creative Arts |  Integrate artistic mediums to further articulate and process emotional states 

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Cognitive Behavioural  |  Challenge dysfunctional thought processes to reconstruct cognitive patterns, regulate emotion and improve coping strategies

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OUTDOOR THERAPY

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Should it be your preference and the weather is suitable, I also hold sessions while walking or sitting in nature.  Being immersed in the outdoors combines the benefits of a natural environment and physical movement with therapeutic processing.  It brings a different kind of dynamic to the work, and for some, it can assist with psychological expression and somatic regulation.​  These appointments are held in private community gardens in the Edinburgh New Town, local to my practice room. 

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YOUR QUESTIONS ANSWERED

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How does therapy feel?

Everyone’s experience of psychotherapy is unique to them. Fundamentally, therapy offers a confidential space to express your feelings and explore what’s on your mind.  Self-expression can bring an immense sense of release, which when witnessed without judgment, can be transformational. Feeling listened to, understood, and acknowledged is an emotional experience. Some emotions can feel intense and unsettling, but both the therapeutic process and relationship can support you to manage what surfaces.

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What will the duration be?

Psychotherapy can be undertaken on either a short-term or long-term basis. The duration and number of sessions will depend on several factors, including your individual needs, the therapeutic approach, and the complexity of the issues being addressed. It is uncommon for therapy to conclude in fewer than 12 sessions, and many courses of treatment can extend for two years or longer. 

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What will the frequency be?​

It is preferable that we work weekly to begin with, but fortnightly is also possible. 

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How do I choose a psychotherapist?​

Finding the right psychotherapist for your individual needs is essential to effective psychotherapy.  It is common not to find the right fit in the first experience. It is helpful to explore what working with different therapists might feel like, so you get a sense of whom you could connect with.  I offer a free 15-minute introductory phone consultation, followed by an initial session at a reduced rate to provide you with the opportunity to ask questions and determine whether my approach aligns with what you are looking for. These initial engagements can help clarify your reasons for seeking psychotherapy, what you hope to gain, and whether I can provide the support you need in the most effective way.

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Is psychotherapy confidential?​

Yes, psychotherapy is confidential, and I will explain the legal and ethical boundaries of confidentiality in our initial meetings or in a written contract which we both agree to. Learn more about my Code of Ethics and Professional Practice. 

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Which conditions can I assist with?

I work with individuals experiencing grief, anxiety, depression, trauma, and many other challenges, providing compassionate support tailored to your needs. The therapies page provides more information on what I can assist with.

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To find out more about psychotherapy and for any questions you have, please contact me ​​​​​

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