How I Work.

The most important aspect of how I work is the creation of an accepting and safe environment. I believe this is essential in facillitating the self-discovery which accompanies good therapy.

From this base there are a number of facets to how I work, depending on the presenting issue and on what the client is seeking. Generally I help people to live as well as they possibly can in the present , which may include problem solving and self-esteem buiding, while exploring the history of the issue and the underlying dynamics.

My philosophy is to provide client based, therapist led therapy. In other words I am interested in what my clients' theories on their issues are and what they find helpful. Therapy is a co-operative venture rather than a process imposed by me from a rigid philosophical and theoretical framework.

Where appropriate I use systemic therapy which considers a person in the light of their relationships. So family, social and work dynamics are all seen as vital in influencing how we feel about ourselves and how we behave.

The tools I use are tailored to the needs of my clients. I am very respectful of reluctance and do not believe in "The Resistant Client", but rather in the possibility of the therapist being out of step with their needs and timing.

While using the usual counselling tools of empathic listening and reflective listening, I also use cognitive behavioural therapy, relaxation and focussing techniques (such as EMDR and EFT).
I give my clients simple take-home tools for reducing anxiety and stress.

At times I use visual representations of the issues my clients bring. This is particularly helpful with children and adolescents and those for whom English is a second language. It is also an excellent tools for exploring relationship and business issues and in the interpretation of dreams.

I am happy to answer any questions you may have, so please feel free to email me or call on (02) 9712 2440.