My Approach

I offer a calm, gentle and grounded space where we can slow down and explore what is happening for you.

I view the therapeutic space as container; somewhere difficult feelings and experiences can safely be given room. There may be things you haven't had the opportunity to put into words, or feelings that have been buried underneath and need some time to emerge. We don't have to rush. I work at your pace and follow what feels important to you.

The relationship between us is an important part of the work. I work relationally, which means I am not simply a blank screen in the room. I am there with you as a real person, with care and curiosity about your experience and what it is like for you to be with me. I pay attention to what is said, as well as what might be left unsaid. I may notice changes in your expression, tone or body, and we can become curious together about what you might be communicating, consciously or unconsciously.

I am interested in how our early experiences, relationships and families can shape the ways we understand ourselves and relate to other people. They can influence the patterns and expectations we carry into later relationships, sometimes without us being fully aware of them. Together, we can gently explore where some of these patterns may have come from, how they might be affecting you now, and the ways you have learned to cope with difficult experiences.

I also pay attention to the connection between our minds and bodies. Sometimes our bodies respond before we have words for what we're feeling. You may notice tension, feeling shut down or overwhelmed, or moments when you feel more at ease. I may invite you to notice these responses as we talk, without needing to immediately make sense of them.

These different perspectives; including attachment, psychodynamic, relational and embodied approaches, inform how I think about your experience. I don't want to fit you into a particular theory or way of being; instead, they are ways of helping me understand you and what you are experiencing. Different perspectives may feel more or less relevant at different moments in our work.

My aim is to help you understand yourself more deeply: how you feel, how you relate to others, and the patterns you find yourself in.

I won't tell you who you are or what you should do. Instead, I'll come alongside you to try understand your experience from your perspective and, where it feels helpful, gently challenge you.