Psychotherapy

Psychotherapy is generally a more long term process than counselling and focuses on the self – both conscious and unconscious.

I offer psychotherapy specifically tailored to your individual needs and strengths, working from an integral model of human development created by Ken Wilber and informed by my long term practice of mindfulness meditation of various kinds. The integral model honours the interconnected aspects of biology and psychology, as well as the social, cultural and spiritual aspects of being in the world. This comprehensive approach to human suffering, healing, and personal growth is appropriate for individuals and couples.

We all deal with issues of personal meaning, of relationship to self, others and the world, which includes past events and trauma. I work with you to gain a deeper level of self-understanding so as to overcome core issues that may underlie persistent or recurring difficulties in your life.

In our therapy relationship, we can also explore what is occurring between you and me. This is a dynamic way of interacting which can lead you to uncover the patterns that you experience in other relationships outside of the therapy room. By understanding the patterns that play out between us in counselling, you become more aware of the barriers you have to relating in an authentic way. You and I can then experiment with new ways of relating that will transfer to other relationships in your life.

Research into neuroscience and relational psychotherapy shows evidence of the healing abilities brought about by a client-therapist relationship, when it is based on respect and trust. My focus on assisting the development of our relationship and on repairing any misunderstandings which may occur makes me an active participant in the therapeutic process. This is a highly effective way of healing past relationship wounds in the here and now using the context of our relationship in the present.

I use different therapy, meditation and mindfulness methods tailored to fit with your unique needs. My meditation practice since the early 1980s informs my understanding of mental, emotional and physical suffering and how this may be transformed into an experience of well-being. I focus on being calm, present and responsive to you while we work, adapting to your individual needs and experience while you are with me. I also encourage you to practice a mindful approach to the issues we work on together, so that you can experiment with this outside of your therapy hour. In my experience, and it is also supported by research, this is a beneficial way of working and clients often report positive rewards from learning the skills of mindfulness.

What to do now?

To book your appointment with me, call (02) 9516 4399, (0421) 961 687 or email me.

If you’re not ready to book an appointment, call me on (02) 9516 4399 to book a FREE 10 minute phone consultation to discuss how I may be able to assist you.