Choosing Your Therapist

The distinction between psychotherapy and counselling is not always clear, as the terms are often used interchangeably. In my practice, counselling typically represents the initial stage of healing and treatment of presenting problems. During this phase, clients share their challenges, situations, emotions they are experiencing and their goals from counselling. Through our sessions, clients receive support, guided discovery of self and experience emotion management tools that help them cope with their situations, bringing functional normality back in their daily life.

​

For clients with more severe psychological distress, this stage is an opportunity to assess and formulate each case based. I then apply the most suitable psychotherapy approach (referred to as a "modality" by professionals) tailored to each client’s unique history, personality, goals, and preferred treatment timeline.

Each psychotherapy modality has its strengths and weaknesses. For instance, Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) is particularly effective for addressing unwanted behaviours and reducing unhelpful thoughts. For grief, loss, and trauma, a psychodynamic or humanistic approach may be more appropriate. In the context of couples or family relationships, Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT) is often used.

 

Beginning with counselling sessions is vital because it not only provides clients with immediate benefits through the therapeutic alliance but also ensures that their situation is professionally assessed. This initial step can save clients considerable time, money, and effort in finding the right therapist on their own—a task that can often feel daunting.

​A good therapist should be your ally to enable your personal growth. Therapy is most effective when you feel safe, heard, cared for, and genuinely supported. A good therapist always prioritises building a deep, meaningful connection with their clients, guiding them to their own discovery and decisions.

​

While certain therapy modalities, such as Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), incorporate goal-setting and structured tasks, the therapeutic relationship is much more than a means to deliver a set of tools.

 

As a clinical CBT therapist myself, my role is not merely applying evidence and research based psychological treatments to manage your symptoms. I am dedicated to support you as you navigate life in a way that feels safe. I will bring my expertise and experience to guide you through your therapeutic journey, fostering a collaborative and meaningful relationship. In fact, this relationship is often the essense of the healing process.