Psychodynamic Therapy

Psychodynamic Therapy is an umbrella term encompassing various schools of thought. The common thread is the belief that unconscious processes, past relationships (particularly those from childhood), and unresolved emotions shape our current behaviours, thoughts, and feelings. The goal of therapy is to foster deeper self-awareness and lasting change by exploring these underlying factors. My practice is primarily informed by the following two frameworks:

• Object-Relations Theory: This approach explores how our earliest relationships create internal 'templates' for how we perceive ourselves and others. By understanding these internalised patterns, we can address how they may be unconsciously influencing your current relationships and sense of identity.

• Analytical (Jungian) Psychology: This framework focuses on 'individuation'—the journey toward becoming your most authentic self. It involves exploring the deeper, often hidden parts of the psyche to understand the patterns and meanings that shape your life's path.

Schema Therapy

Schema Therapy views psychological difficulties as behavioural and emotional patterns developed early in life to serve an adaptive function. For example, a child might over-eat to self-soothe when their emotional needs aren't met by caregivers. While helpful at the time, these patterns often become maladaptive in adulthood when triggered by similar situations. Schema Therapy conceptualises these patterns as 'modes' that need to be understood and balanced by more adaptive modes that align with our values and goals. We do this in therapy through an emotionally nurturing therapeutic relationship and experiential exercises to foster corrective emotional experiences. For a more thorough explanation, you can follow this link: https://www.schemainstitute.co.uk/understanding-schema-therapy/

Family Systems Therapy

Family Systems Therapy (often confused with Internal Family Systems Therapy) examines the relational dynamics at play, not just in our families, but also within our social circles, such as friends, colleagues, and partners. The roles we play, the communication patterns we establish, and the expectations passed down through generations can all contribute to the psychological and relational challenges we face. Broadly speaking, Family Systems Therapy aims to bring to the client’s attention the “stuck” relational and communication patterns they inherited from their social circles and make changes to these patterns in order to bring about more emotionally fulfilling and connecting relationships.

Cognitive-Behavioural Therapy

Cognitive-Behavioural Therapy focuses on the connections between our thoughts, emotions, and behaviours. Often, clients seek therapy to make changes in one of these three areas. By identifying distorted or maladaptive thinking patterns, we can work to challenge these thoughts and construct alternative perspectives that guide our emotions and behaviours in the directions we desire.