confidence-building
course 2010

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>>FAQ's: frequently asked questions
>>What therapy or counselling is
>>How I work
>>Who I help
>>Fees and times
>>The initial session
>>My qualifications and ethical code

How I work

There are numerous models of counselling and psychotherapy: the technical term which most closely describes my practice is 'psychodynamic', which is a style that puts relationships - both past and present - at the heart of emotional life.

When we are troubled by our ability to cope with something there is often a relationship component to our difficulty. If we can understand how this affects us, we are better placed to take control of our own lives. I am also influenced by the humanistic therapies, which emphasise the contactful and human nature of the therapeutic experience.

Both of these approaches work with feelings, and what we do with them, i.e. we look at the connection between feelings and behaviour.

The therapeutic relationship itself is an important component in the work we undertake. If you come to see me, it is important that you feel safe enough within that relationship to explore (if you so choose) any difficulty which is felt. Creating a sense of trust and safety is therefore high on my agenda. My job is to develop a conversation with you in which I try to get to know you. Along the way, I communicate to you how I see you, and we explore together whether my perceptions fit with yours. This work is therefore challenging, as it needs to address areas that are uncomfortable to face (eg guilt, shame, sadness) or else need thinking about afresh. Christian Amery, quoted by Mia Ogden in the Sunday Times, 05.06.05 writes: 'To have your long-held ideas challenged is tough, and your therapist is not doing you any favours if they give you an easy ride.' The difference between a social relationship and a therapeutic relationship is that a supportive therapist will not change the subject or punish you when difficult areas are addressed.