People come to therapy for a variety of reasons. Often the need for therapy is sparked by a crisis, suffering, conflict or change. When these moments are handled consciously and with care, it creates potential for renewed insight and growth.
I see individuals, parents, couples and families who bring a variety of concerns including child developmental difficulties, child behavioural problems, parent-child relational difficulties, self-harm in adolescents, self-esteem and identity issues, difficulties related to illness and somatic symptoms, depression, anxiety, family difficulties, couple discord, marital problems, bereavement, trauma and adjustment difficulties. I also offer a therapeutic space for people who generally feel confused, stuck or disconnected and in need of self-exploration.
My Therapeutic Approach
My orientation to therapy is rooted in psychodynamic theory. This means I see therapy as a collaborative and explorative process of gradually coming to understand and process one’s feelings, as well as understand patterns of relating to oneself and others. Of specific note are patterns that are underlying and sustaining current frustrations and struggles, bearing in mind the importance of early experiences as well as unconscious factors. Our early experiences form the foundation of our development and unprocessed early trauma often emerge as problems later in life. The influence of neuro-biological and attachment aspects are taken into account. When appropriate I draw from other theoretical frameworks such as systems theory and Dialectical Behaviour Therapy (DBT).
In my work with children and adolescents, systemic and developmental factors are considered. Parents are involved in the process in a way that is appropriate for the child’s age and developmental level. Parenting can be daunting and I often see parents alone when they need a space to reflect on their parenting journey.
When difficulties arise in relation to babies, the modality of parent-infant psychotherapy is used. Children who are under five years old are also seen together with parents. In these cases, therapy would involve a collaborative process of observing, gaining insight and finding new ways of engaging and relating.
Young children between ages of 5 and 10/11 are offered a space to play and work creatively, due to play being children’s way of communicating and expressing themselves. I have a fully equipped play section and an art corner in my consulting room.
Adolescence can be a time of turmoil, however it is also a critical developmental period holding enormous potential for growth. Therapy during adolescence can foster greater emotional regulation, self-awareness and a sense of personal identity.
I see adults for psychodynamically-informed individual or couples’ therapy.
I have a particular interest in incorporating art and images in therapy and completed various training courses in this regard. At any age (child, adolescent or adult), creative expression is welcomed - but not compulsory - as part of the therapeutic process since art can enhance our understanding of ourselves and facilitate growth.