My approach: How psychodynamic psychotherapy can help you
Before training as a therapist my background was in the arts and literature, and as a result I pay close attention to the narratives we construct and the disguises we assume to protect ourselves from pain. I am particularly interested in the conflict between our public and private selves, and the feelings of isolation and disconnection that can build as a result. My clinical experience includes working with people suffering from depression, persistent anxiety, relationship problems and low self-esteem, but I also understand that it can be difficult to put your finger on exactly what is wrong - this too is a valid place to start.
I listen not only to your current concerns, but also to the past experiences, memories and relationships that shape them. Often, we view the present through a lens of the past, and can end up stuck in emotional patterns which are no longer appropriate or helpful. By reflecting on how these patterns have formed, psychodynamic therapy can help you to identify which aspects of your life you would like to hold onto, and which you would rather let go.
Intimacy and relationships.
Intimacy can feel threatening - we yearn for closeness yet past experience may have taught us that it is not safe. By highlighting the patterns that condition your behaviour, therapy can support you towards kinder and more courageous ways of relating.
Depression.
Suffering from depression can leave you feeling numb, worthless and unable to find meaning. In therapy we work to identify the negative thought patterns that you feel trapped by, enabling you to reconnect with yourself and the people around you.​
Masking.
The constant pressure to meet the expectations of others can lead to losing touch with our sense of self. We do it to make life tolerable, but we can find it splitting us apart. Therapy can help you lower these masks and find a new sense of authenticity.
Low self-esteem.
In therapy we can uncover the origins of the harsh self-criticism holding you back. By challenging internalised negative beliefs, often formed in childhood, you can begin to build to build a more compassionate and realistic relationship with yourself.
Anxiety and stress.
Feeling overwhelmed and out of your depth is exhausting, and can keep you from living the life you want. In therapy we explore where these anxieties originate, helping you to find different perspectives and build more confident ways of thinking.
Uncertainty and control.
In therapy we seek to understand why the unknown can feel so threatening. By reflecting on how early experiences may have shaped your need to hold onto control, we can begin to build the capacity to tolerate uncertainty and recognise its value.