What's the difference between counselling and psychotherapy?
Briefly, it is whether you choose short term, issue focused work, or longer term, deeper self-examination. The edges are blurry and you may only discover what you need through having some sessions. Some clients choose to work with me on an ongoing basis to support them in their processes of growth and development. We can let go of deeply-ingrained 'shoulds' or 'oughts' and be free to make different choices. We can then become the selves that we were always intended to be.

What is ‘transpersonal psychotherapy'?
Transpersonal psychotherapy ('beyond the personal') considers the inter-connectedness of all things and the meaning of life itself and takes into account any spiritual beliefs you may have. With the transpersonal perspective, disturbances in the physical, emotional, mental and psychic bodies are not seen as something being 'wrong' but as something wanting to heal. I use processes such as body awareness, breath-work, dreamwork, creativity and visualisation that can help you connect more deeply with your 'transpersonal self' and allow more peace into your life.

Integrative psychotherapy recognizes that different schools of therapy, which, though varied, offer an important perspective on the human condition as a whole. Being inclusive, I can include different aspects of these views to create a fuller picture of the individual but also to adapt the styles to what you most need at a particular time. You can explore the past or examine the ‘here and now' experiences of your life. As complex individuals, we tend to do both so these can be integrated into the process.

Choosing a therapist
The client/therapist relationship is a critical part of the work. Some say it is everything, which is why choosing a therapist is so important. Although counsellors and psychotherapists may use terms to indicate their therapeutic approach (psychodynamic, existential, CBT, etc), it does not tell you about them as people or how you will experience them. It is important that you feel able to connect to whoever you work with. Consider asking questions on the telephone that might aid you in making a choice, and then book single sessions with a few therapists before making your decision.

The UKCP and BACP registers are good resources for finding a therapist, since both demand suitable training and ethical practice. The UKCP accredits, registers and monitors psychotherapists and their training organisations. Although there can never be a guarantee of a psychotherapist's professionalism and some extremely good therapists choose not to be registered, the UKCP accreditation assures a high level of personal and academic proficiency.