My therapeutic style
People describe my demeanour as friendly, warm and patient, but I don’t shy away from being daring. I might interrupt you to inquire about something that just occurred in our conversation. I pay close attention to whatever arises in the consulting room, as it is often in the small details that we discover something important. I might invite you to pause, reflect and examine by saying, ‘Hold on, what have you just noticed?’
I relate to you with respect, and attempt to work with you on a human-to-human level, rather than from the condescending perspective of an ‘expert’. Instead of viewing you as someone who needs to fundamentally change, I am interested in uncovering the wisdom, sanity and authentic being that you already possess.
Buddhist influence
Buddhist practice and study have been an integral part of my life for decades. I don’t tend to talk about Buddhism in sessions, but my meditation experience informs how I work. I believe that the skill of paying attention, the capacity for genuine curiosity and the ability to rest in the present moment are essential to the therapeutic work. Most importantly, these skills can be learned by anyone.
Are we going to be a good fit?
My approach will likely suit you if:
- you are interested in learning new things about yourself
- you are curious to examine how you think and perceive and are open to trying new ways of responding
- you would consider engaging in the therapeutic process outside of our sessions, through reflection and observation
- you would consider looking at your past to see how your previous experience influences your present situation
- you are open to being challenged sometimes, in ways that are respectful, tolerable and don’t feel overwhelming
- you are open to working at depth, rather than looking for a ‘quick fix’