What is Talking Therapy?
Talking Therapy is a form of counselling that provides a safe, confidential space where you can discuss your thoughts, feelings and experiences with a trained professional. Talking in a counselling session is different to talking with a friend; a counsellor is trained to listen without judgement and to help you make sense of anything that troubles you. We can work on short-term goals to support specific life challenges or work longer-term for a deeper exploration of whatever you bring.
Arts Counselling vs Talking Therapy
For those who prefer just to talk, I offer Talking Therapy as traditional Counselling sessions. I also incorporate it into Arts Counselling which blends Talking Therapy with creative processes designed to support the therapeutic process. In Arts Counselling you can talk for the whole session if that feels right, then return to a blend of talking and creative processes in the next session, or just art activities as a form of self-expression. In this way, talking and creativity feed into the other. Whether you choose Talking Therapy alone, or Arts Counselling, I am pleased to accommodate whatever feels right for you.
Talking Therapy & Person-Centred Counselling
My approach to Talking Therapy is underpinned by Person-Centred Counselling. Developed by psychologist Carl Rogers in the 1940s, person-centred therapy is a humanistic approach that suggests every individual can reach their full potential when provided with the right environment and support. There are 3 ‘core conditions’ underlying this approach:
The first is congruence which requires me as the therapist to be authentic and honest in the therapeutic relationship – I offer a warm, genuine approach.
The second is unconditional positive regard which requires non-judgement and acceptance – I listen to and value whatever you share with me, seeing you in a positive light.
The third condition is empathy which requires active listening and understanding of your viewpoint – I hold a compassionate space and give you my full attention.
With these core conditions in place, I help you explore feelings and experiences to bring greater self-awareness. I believe that you are the expert on yourself. My role is to provide a safe place for you to express yourself, be heard and perhaps to consider your situation from new perspectives. Rather than offer advice, I support you to come to your own conclusions, make your own choices and feel empowered.