My Personal Philosophy of Counselling & Psychotherapy

My personal philosophy of counselling is rooted in the integration of person-centred and psychoanalytic approaches, a synthesis influenced by both my theoretical learning and personal experience as a client.

My decision to pursue a career in psychotherapy was partly driven by my own experience as a therapy client. At a critical juncture in my life, I sought counselling to navigate through a challenging period of anxiety and self-doubt. The person-centred approach I encountered in therapy provided me with a safe space to explore my feelings and thoughts without fear of judgment. Later during my training, I discovered that this experience profoundly influenced my belief in the therapeutic relationship as a catalyst for healing.

Simultaneously, my client journey and academic training deepened my understanding of the importance of unconscious processes and the significance of one's past in shaping their present experiences. This insight guides me to help clients illuminate the hidden roots of their anxiety or depression, empowering them to confront and resolve long-standing issues. Reflecting on my personal experience highlighted the value of integrating both person-centred and psychoanalytic perspectives to facilitate holistic healing.

In my current psychotherapy practice, I strive to create a therapeutic environment grounded in empathy, unconditional positive regard, and active listening – the core tenets of person-centred therapy. I believe that when clients feel genuinely heard and accepted, they are more likely to embark on their journey of self-exploration and personal growth.

Moreover, I incorporate elements of psychoanalytic theory into my practice by recognising the importance of exploring unconscious processes and unresolved conflicts. Through open dialogue and reflective questioning, I guide clients in delving deeper into their inner worlds, uncovering hidden motivations, and making connections between past experiences and present struggles.

In conclusion, my personal philosophy of counselling is an amalgamation of person-centred and psychoanalytic approaches, shaped by my own

experience as a therapy client and informed by my theoretical training. The congruence between these philosophies lies in the belief that the therapeutic relationship is paramount to healing and growth, and in the understanding that uncovering unconscious processes and past experiences can be transformative. By integrating these two perspectives, I aim to provide a comprehensive and effective psychotherapy approach that respects the uniqueness of each client while facilitating profound personal change.