How I Work
I'm an integrative, relational therapist with a humanistic heart.
I offer sessions online via Zoom and in person walk-and-talk sessions in the Alvechurch, Birmingham area.
Let me explain what working with me is like...
The Integrative bit...
I don't believe there's one single approach that will work for everyone. Because of this I often integrate different modalities so you get the most out of our therapeutic work. I sometimes use parts-work, from Internal Family Systems (IFS) and Transactional Analysis (TA), which can be helpful for understanding why one part of you wants one thing while another wants something completely different. I also commonly integrate creative approaches, somatic exercises or values-based work from Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT).
Safety
I work in a trauma-informed way which means your physical and psychological safety are paramount. You will never be forced to disclose anything you don't feel comfortable or ready to and I pay attention to the pacing of our sessions so they feel progressive but not too overwhelming. Prioritising safety also means we might incorporate some nervous system regulation into our work if this feels right.
Whatever it is you're struggling with, my approach is to listen with curiosity, not judgement. Judgement shuts the conversation down, whereas curiosity opens it up. My approach invites you to get curious about what’s behind your own beliefs and behaviours too so you can gain a deeper understanding of who you are.
Curiosity
Compassion
Do you sometimes feel like your mind is a nasty, critical place to be? Like shame controls your every move? If this feels familiar then you’ll know how much it eats away at you. This is where self-compassion comes into our work. Looking at yourself and your life experiences through a more compassionate lens can help free you from internal conflict that you’re probably exhausted from and open you up to some kindness.
Acceptance
My goal is to create a therapeutic space where you’re able to show up to our sessions exactly as you are, and this involves working in a LGBTQIA+ and neuro affirming way. Helping you find self-acceptance is also key to my approach. I'm not talking about a “giving up” or defeatist kind of acceptance, but an acceptance which helps you know yourself better, live more authentically and free from the “shoulds”.
Change
People often come to therapy hoping for some kind of change. My approach aims to help you work towards change that is meaningful and comes from a place of kindness and self-respect, rather than shame or self-hatred.
Collaboration
My approach is collaborative. If I misunderstand what you're saying or something doesn’t work for you, I want to know. If there are accommodations we can make so therapy is more comfortable for you, I'm open to whatever we can put in place. Your lifelong understanding of your needs and preferences is not insignificant; we can use that to inform our work together.
The Relational bit...
I believe our relationship is central to the therapeutic work. We'll take our time building a foundation of trust and openness. Relational work can also involve looking at what is happening in the relationship between us so you can better understand your relational patterns (default ways of relating to others), how they are serving you (or not) and how to change them (if you want).
My work is also guided by the following values...
Walk-and-Talk Therapy
In addition to online Zoom therapy, I also I offer walk and talk therapy in the Alvechurch, Birmingham area for those who would like in person support. For some people, being outdoors walking alongside each other can make therapy feel less intense than being face to face. For others nature has a grounding effect and for some the bilateral stimulation of the brain that happens when you're walking brings about psychological benefits.
If this is something you're interested in, book in a free 15 minute exploration call so we can discuss if it's right for you.
Let's Connect
If how I work sounds like a good fit for you or if you've got more questions, then drop me a message.
I offer free, no-obligation 15-minute exploration calls with me.
I aim to get back to all enquiries within 48 hours.