My Approach to Therapy...
...combines my formal training, rooted in the psychodynamic tradition, with a down to earth relational sensitivity attuned to what emerges in the space between us, during the here and now of each session. In some respects it’s no different to any other human relationship, but, the focus is on you. And so I see my role being to create a space that can help you explore what’s happening for you.
It’s actually quite difficult to pin down with words as relationships are always unique and they evolve over time. For me the therapeutic process allows for curiosity about the Self and its multi-dimensional aspects. This is a unique and compassionate exploration of the unconscious, and the patterns of behaviour that shape who you are and how you really feel about yourself. These patterns often contribute to interpersonal wounds and can be the root to understanding the self-imposed pain of fear, doubt, shame and despair.
My guiding metaphor is that of exploration, and I engage in this process through holding space either indoors within a comfortable room at Newton Place, G3, or outdoors (walking or sitting under tarp) at Pollok Park, G43.
Openness, curiosity and an overarching faith in our ability to delve deep and gain awareness through this process are the attributes and energy I bring into the relational space between us, where a co-created working alliance, built on trust, can help you gain greater awareness of your inner world and integrate the life events that have shaped who you are.
Our main task together will be to develop a therapeutic relationship that acts as a container where you can safely explore the past in the present and the unconscious patterns that may have now become unhelpful to you on your journey through life. To this end I draw on many sources of inspiration and knowledge; from contemporary psychodynamic theory and Jungian informed dreamwork, to ancient wisdom traditions and their rich mythic frameworks.
I also provide in-depth preparation and integration support for people who are independently exploring psychedelics as a means for psychological and spiritual healing and growth. This is based on my own experience and relationship with entheogens, cultivated over two decades (note: I do not facilitate any therapeutic use of psychedelics).
