My Specialisms
While I have experience working with various difficulties, my main specialisms are working with trauma, PTSD, and low self esteem. Below you will find more information about the different approaches I would typically use in the sessions:
What is CBT?
Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) is a well-established, evidence-based form of psychotherapy that focuses on helping individuals understand and change the patterns of thinking and behaviour that contribute to their emotional and psychological distress.
The core principle of CBT is that our thoughts, feelings, and behaviours are interconnected, and by addressing unhelpful thinking patterns or behaviours, we can influence how we feel.
How does CBT work?
CBT is a structured, goal-oriented approach that typically involves working with a therapist to:
Identify Problematic Thoughts
Many emotional difficulties stem from negative, irrational, or distorted thinking. CBT helps individuals recognise these harmful thought patterns.
Challenge and Reframe Thoughts
Once identified, the therapist will guide you to question the accuracy and usefulness of these thoughts, and help you replace them with more balanced and realistic perspectives.
Develop Coping Strategies
CBT provides practical tools and coping strategies to manage stress, anxiety, depression, and other emotional challenges. This may involve challenging yourself, developing healthier thinking habits, or practicing problem-solving skills.
Change Behaviour
By altering how we think, we can make positive changes in our behaviours. CBT encourages individuals to engage in activities that promote well-being and reduce avoidance or unhealthy habits.
What to Expect in a CBT Session
CBT sessions are typically short-term and structured, lasting around 12–20 weeks. The initial sessions include working out together what is maintaining your difficulties, setting specific goals, and forming a treatment plan.
We will then work on techniques that address your unique concerns. You’ll also be encouraged to practice these techniques outside of therapy, making CBT an active, hands-on process.
What is EMDR?
Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) is an effective and evidence-based therapy that helps individuals process and heal from traumatic experiences and distressing life events.
Unlike traditional talk therapy, EMDR uses different non-invasive ways to engage both sides of the brain through guided eye movements, tapping, or auditory tones, to help the brain reprocess memories and reduce the emotional intensity associated with them.
How does EMDR work?
EMDR is based on the idea that traumatic memories can get “stuck” in the brain, preventing proper processing and causing ongoing distress. By stimulating both sides of the brain (through eye movements, tapping, or auditory tones), EMDR facilitates the natural healing process and helps desensitise the individual to painful memories.
Research and personal experience has shown that virtual sessions are just as effective as face to face when we are processing memories.
What to Expect in a EMDR Session
EMDR sessions are structured and typically last for 60 minutes. In some cases, the session will take 90 minutes. The length of treatment varies depending on the severity of the issues being addressed. While some people experience significant changes after a few sessions, others may need more extensive work to process their trauma.
EMDR does not require extensive verbal exploration of trauma, making it an appealing option for individuals who find it difficult to talk about their experiences. If you are struggling with unresolved trauma or distressing memories, EMDR could be a powerful tool to help you heal and move forward.
What is Interpersonal Therapy (IPT)?
Interpersonal Therapy (IPT) is a time-limited, structured form of psychotherapy that focuses on improving relationships and addressing interpersonal issues that contribute to emotional difficulties, such as depression.
The central idea behind IPT is that our mental health is deeply connected to our relationships with others, and by improving communication, resolving conflicts, and strengthening social support, individuals can experience significant relief from emotional distress.
How does IPT work?
IPT is based on the understanding that difficult life events, transitions, and relationship challenges can trigger or worsen mental health issues. The therapy is designed to help individuals understand how their interpersonal relationships and social roles impact their emotional well-being, and to develop healthier ways of relating to others.
Key areas of focus in IPT include:
Grief and Loss
IPT helps individuals process the emotions surrounding a significant loss, whether through death, separation, or other forms of personal loss, and helps them navigate the process of adjustment.
Role Transitions
Changes in life circumstances, such as starting a new job, becoming a parent, or going through a divorce, can lead to stress and anxiety. IPT works to ease these transitions by helping individuals develop new skills and adjust to their changing roles.
Interpersonal Conflicts
Unresolved conflicts or communication issues with loved ones, coworkers, or friends can contribute to emotional distress. IPT focuses on improving communication skills and conflict resolution strategies to strengthen relationships.
Interpersonal Deficits/Sensitivities
For those who struggle to form or maintain meaningful relationships, IPT helps individuals build social skills, improve self-esteem, and foster more supportive connections.
What to Expect in a IPT Session
IPT is typically short-term, lasting between 12-16 weeks, with each session structured around specific goals. In the early sessions, you and your therapist will identify the key areas of interpersonal difficulty contributing to your emotional distress. From there, you will work together to develop strategies for improving communication, resolving conflicts, and navigating difficult life changes.
IPT is practical and focused on the present, helping you gain insight into your relationships and develop healthier ways to interact with others, ultimately reducing your symptoms and improving your overall well-being.
