"Can you tell me more about your way of working?"

When working with people who want to address behavioural, psychological and psychosomatic problems I draw on aspects of many psychological theories including psychodynamic, relational and cognitive. I consider the most important aspect to be the unique relationship that develops with each person. Echoes of the past as well as current issues brought into the session can be safely explored. This helps to work through negative feelings and self-defeating beliefs and behaviours. The autonomy of the individual is respected allowing development and change to occur in the light of the person's own values and life experiences. 
Some people want to specifically focus on the past, the present or the future. While others prefer to look at life as a whole and acknowledge relationships with family, friends and society in general.
I consider thinking, feeling and physical well-being to be interrelated and affect what we do, how we behave. Sometimes life’s problems seem to block hopes, dreams and creativity. Therapy provides an opportunity to examine what stops us from achieving what we want to achieve and to make choices, changes or to gain a deeper and clearer understanding. 
 

"You mention psychodynamic and cognitive , what do they mean?"

A psychodynamic view considers present problems in the context of life history and past experiences. Patterns of relationship and behaviour that have evolved since childhood may be explored. The real world of the client is taken into account including family and social context, cultural differences, impact of traumatic events, sexual orientation, disability and more. The therapeutic relationship can build acceptance and understanding, and develop insight so that problems can be addressed.

 

A cognitive level focuses on thinking (cognitive) patterns. It can help with conditions such as anxiety or depression. Negative thoughts can be challenged to encourage new ways of thinking, behaving and feeling.

In addition, for some, behavioural exploration can offer opportunities to try new ways as well as help to recognise what is working well.

"How many sessions will I need?"

This will very much depend on what you are wishing to look at or hope to change in your life. You may choose to work within a specific time frame to address an issue or take more time to look at long-standing, deeper-rooted problems. We can discuss the way ahead when we first meet.

"Can I bring dreams, pictures, poetry or music to talk about?"

I believe anything that connects us with our inner, sometimes unconscious self, and with the world, is valuable and potentially enriching for our lives and for the process of therapy.