As an Integrative Counsellor I use many models of theory and approach for the betterment of my clients and the very broad and differing things they may bring to work on. It could be divorce, childhood neglect or feelings of despair amongst many others. However my approach to each person is one of great respect and unconditional positive regard.
The foundation of my work is Person-centred. Conceptionalised by the late Carl Roger's, he believed that everyone is unique with their own story to tell and experience. This should be valued and used to understand, empathise, with the use of the other 'Core Values' to walk with our clients and see their world as they do. This approach underpins all of my work.
There are a great many other ways I work too. Here are a list of the ones I favour most.
Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT)
CBT is a method of working you may recognise from the NHS. It's a in the here and now method focussed on the clients current difficulty, which is primarily used to guide clients, through their own observations, tolerance and modification of behaviours. Used to help people experiencing anxiety and depression for the most part, it can be used for other difficulties too.
Mindfulness
For some mindfulness means chanting, for others it is a way of noticing the many things that pass us by. Giving objects, emotions, people and experiences some much needed attention.
Sand Tray
A cathartic and viseral method of play and structure of our unconscious mind. A great way to delve deeply inward and understand your needs, wants and expression of the unsaid.
Exposure and Response Therapy (ERT)
Like CBT this way of working is more structured and can be a challenge for those in need of its intervention. ERT is used to help people who are struggling with Obsessive Compulsive Disorder (OCD) who are bound by the their Unwanted Intrusive Thoughts (UIT).
Inner Child
Connecting with your Inner Child is a way of working to help you heal from the past and times in your childhood which still effect you to this day. This approach can be structured, whilst empathic and guides you through healing your wounds from adverse childhood experiences (ACES).
Transactional Analysis (TA)
TA is a great way to understand your communication style and that of others, so you can be assertive, yet kind, calm and boundaried when conversing and grow awareness.
Brief Solution Focussed Counselling (BSFT)
As you may have guessed from the title BSFT is very much about focussing on a solution to the problem you feel you have and how changes might be made to make the focus a reality. This work is short term and does not look into any patterns from past experiences.