counselling
Clients often wonder what to expect when attending therapy. I usually describe counselling as an open, honest conversation with someone you trust. The difference is that I bring my professional training into the conversation to better understand the challenges you are experiencing and to help you find ways of addressing them.
The therapeutic approaches I use depend on your reasons for seeking counselling (your presenting concerns) as well as your expectations of therapy. Approaches that focus more on the “here and now” are often helpful for concerns such as recent trauma (for example, experiences of violence or crime) and grief or loss.
I use the first therapy session to gain a clearer understanding of your current concerns and to explore whether past or present factors may be contributing to them. When earlier experiences—such as past trauma or significant relationships—appear to play an important role, I may suggest that longer-term therapy (usually at least six sessions) could be beneficial.
When is counselling needed?
Counselling is commonly sought for two broad reasons. Some people seek counselling when they are functioning reasonably well but want to experience personal growth or gain greater insight into themselves. Others seek counselling when they—or the people around them—are concerned about how well they are coping in different areas of life.
You may notice distressing or unwanted changes in one or more areas, such as your emotional well-being, physical health, behaviour, work or studies, relationships, finances, or sense of meaning. You may also feel stuck, overwhelmed, helpless, or unsure of how to cope or improve your well-being. Counselling can help make sense of these experiences and support you in finding ways forward.
How does counselling work?
There are many different theoretical approaches to counselling, and a number of factors contribute to its effectiveness. I believe that counselling works by providing a safe and supportive space where clients can hear themselves more clearly, recognise patterns in how they think and feel, and develop a deeper understanding of their experiences.
Counselling can also help clients consider new ways of responding to difficult situations and support them in making decisions that may have a meaningful impact on their lives.
workshops
I have facilitated workshops on a range of topics, including community development and activism, anger management, substance use and dependence, intensive parenting, anxiety, and depression.
Current workshops: