My Approach
The theoretical orientation I use is Gestalt Psychotherapy.
Gestalt therapy first evolved in the first half of the 20th century. Its roots lie in Psychoanalysis and Gestalt Psychology with further integrations from humanistic and existential therapies and Eastern philosophy.
As a Gestalt Practitioner I am interested in the creation of a balanced relationship between body sensation, emotion and understanding so that awareness from these different zones can be maximised to facilitate healthy living. Clients frequently present with a "fuzzy head", holding in emotion or a physical numbness or lack of awareness. By working in the present experience of what is happening we work to unlock any blocks using dialogue, the use of experiment to deepen the experience of what is happening and making links with experiences in the past. We pay attention not only to what is apparent and occupying but also broaden the field of perception by attending to what may be missing or unnoticed.
I also incorporate developmental theories such as attachment theory and the work of Daniel Stern and Allan Schore both to facilitate understanding of the client's current presentation and to create reparative experiences.
Recent advancements in neuroscience also facilitate my understanding of the relationship between the brain, emotions and memory.