How I work
I work in what is known as a Psychodynamic way. In this way of counselling we will look at how past experiences are affecting present behaviours and relationships. The source of present day problems such as depression, anxiety, relationship issues, low self-esteem, overcoming grief etc will often lie in what has happened in life before. In other words we react not to the present but to the past however by exploring and processing these past experiences we can be free from their control in the present. I do not offer a way to simply manage day to day symptoms and paper over the cracks of deeper underlying issues. I will work with you to locate the source of the presenting issues and to achieve long lasting healing and change in your life. Symptom relief will come naturally from this and results will be seen in many areas of life, especially in relationships with others.
I believe that the best way of working is in a face-to-face way so I only offer limited online working. I work face to face in a home office in the PO16 area and also in an office in Chichester City Centre. Both locations offer a quiet and confidential space for you to share safely and non-judgementally what is going on in your life. With regard to ethical working, I abide by the BACP Ethical Framework for the Counselling Professions (July 2018). Included here is respect for human rights and human dignity and a commitment to recognising human diversity, equality and inclusivity of treatment.
What is Psychodynamic Counselling
Psychodynamic counseling is a type of psychotherapy that delves into the unconscious mind to understand how past experiences influence present behaviors and relationships. It's based on the belief that conflicts and traumas in earlier life and traumas can shape our adult lives. As much of life exists at an unconscious level, making it conscious can free us from their control and allow us to move on in life. Such a process can definately be seen as a journey, but a journey into our interior life to find what is hindering us in the present.
Some steps in Psychodynamic Counselling
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A psychodynamic counselor aims to establish a safe and trusting environment where the client feels comfortable in exploring their thoughts and feelings.
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Active Listening and Interpretation: The counselor listens attentively to the client's narratives, paying attention to underlying themes, patterns, and unconscious processes. They may offer interpretations to help the client gain insights into their behavior.
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Exploring Past Experiences: The counselor encourages the client to delve into past experiences, especially childhood relationships, to understand how they might be affecting present difficulties.
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Identifying Defense Mechanisms: The counselor helps the client become aware of defense mechanisms they might be using to cope with anxiety or difficult emotions.
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Promoting Self-Awareness: The ultimate goal of psychodynamic counseling is to help the client gain a deeper understanding of themselves and their patterns of behavior, leading to greater self-awareness and personal growth.
It's important to note that psychodynamic counseling can be a longer-term process, but it can ahieve lasting change. It is certainly not a quick fix-solution, but in getting to the source of the problem, changes can be more sustainable.