As an integrative therapist the approach can be considered as the name suggests, an integration of approaches to suit the needs of the client. Not to be mistaken for a mixed bag of tools and techniques that we choose from, but an approach grounded in theories you may or may not have heard of, all of which considered talking therapies. Now here comes the theoretical element for those who fancy a deeper dive, if not feel free to jump to the next paragraph . I work with the modalities of Gestalt, Psychodynamic and Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), integrating elements of one, two or all three to suit client’s needs. To find out more about these individual approaches and the integrative approach as a whole, follow the links above.
Why an integrative approach?
We are all individuals with varying needs, life experiences, challenges and backgrounds. The uniqueness of our humanness can be explored in any therapeutic endeavour and an integrative approach might mean you hedge your bets on finding a way of working with a therapist that resonates for you. By working with a client, listening to their thoughts and feelings, the integrative approach supports broad exploration of the challenges they might experience drawing from various models.
I would not wish to mislead, setting up camp in any single therapeutic approach is also a brilliant way to explore thoughts, experiences, feelings and behaviours. There is no ‘right’ way to approach therapy, just the way that works for you. The British Association of Counsellors and Psychotherapists (BACP) has an accessible glossary of approaches and terminology for exploration.
Background and experience
During my work I have gained experience of working with many clients with varying issues including anxiety, depression, bereavement, trauma and relationship challenges. The integrative approach supports development of self-awareness to explore issues and realise internal resources to discover a client’s autonomy. Working in an education environment at a College and University Centre has provided extensive experience of various challenges across adult groups. This coupled with work within a non-profit Community Interest Company (CIC) I have been part of supporting the local community with affordable quality counselling and psychotherapy in the wider Birmingham area.
More of the technical stuff
I am a full clinical psychotherapeutic counsellor member of the United Kingdom Council for Psychotherapy (UKCP) and registered member of the British Association for Counselling and Psychotherapy (BACP). These memberships sit alongside my membership of Universities Psychotherapy and Counselling Association (UPCA). As a member of the UKCP, I ensure my practice aligns to the UKCP Code of Ethics and provides assurance to clients of the dedication to the high standards required by the member associations and ethical practice.
What will happen if you think this might work for you?
After an initial chat on the phone, an appointment will be made to introduce both client and therapist to each other, followed by an initial assessment of the presenting issues and goals for therapy. Sessions can be held online via video enabled Teams or in person. If mutually agreed to continue, a therapy session will be booked and you’re on your way. Each session will be booked for 50 minutes at the same time and place for a fixed duration. This duration is flexible ranging from six weeks to longer term work with review sessions discussed and agreed in advance.
Fees, cancellations and attendance
Fees for each session are £55.00 with each session payable in advance, 24 hours before the appointment made via bank transfer. Cancellations are fully chargeable, however, holidays and pre-agreed time off from sessions is not chargeable.
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