THERAPIES i OFFER
Each type of therapy has its own strengths, we work together to find what feels right and effective for you. Depending on your needs, I will draw on a range of evidence-based therapies, including:
EDMR -
Eye Movement Desensitisation & Reprocessing
EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitisation and Reprocessing) is a type of psychotherapy designed to help people process and heal from traumatic or distressing experiences. The Purpose EMDR helps the brain reprocess traumatic or highly emotional memories so that they are no longer overwhelming. Often, traumatic memories get “stuck” in the nervous system, causing ongoing distress, flashbacks, nightmares, or negative beliefs about yourself. 2. How It Works During an EMDR session, the therapist asks you to focus on a distressing memory. While holding that memory in mind, you follow a set of bilateral stimuli, most commonly guided eye movements (moving your eyes side to side), but sometimes taps or sounds are used. This process helps your brain “reprocess” the memory, reducing its emotional intensity and helping you integrate it in a healthier way. 3. Key Benefits Reduces the emotional charge of traumatic memories Helps shift negative beliefs (“I’m unsafe” → “I am safe now”) Can relieve symptoms of PTSD, anxiety, phobias, and other trauma-related conditions Often produces faster results than traditional talk therapy for trauma 4. How It Feels Many people report feeling lighter, calmer, and more grounded after EMDR sessions. Memories don’t disappear, but they stop triggering overwhelming emotional reactions.
CBT -
Cognitive Behavioural Therapy
CBT (Cognitive Behavioural Therapy) is a widely used, evidence-based form of psychotherapy that helps people identify and change unhelpful patterns of thinking and behavior. It is often used for anxiety, depression, trauma, stress, and many other mental health challenges. CBT is based on the idea that our thoughts, feelings, and behaviors are interconnected. Negative or distorted thinking can lead to distressing emotions and unhelpful behaviors. By addressing these thought patterns, we can change how we feel and act. 2. How It Works You work with a therapist to identify negative or unhelpful thoughts. You learn to challenge and reframe those thoughts with more balanced, realistic thinking. You practice new behaviours and coping strategies to respond to difficult situations more effectively. 3. Key Benefits Reduces anxiety, depression, and stress Helps manage phobias, obsessive thoughts, and compulsive behaviours Improves problem-solving and coping skills Encourages practical, actionable change in daily life 4. How It Feels Many people find CBT empowering because it gives tools and strategies they can use outside of therapy. You begin to notice patterns in your thinking, gain more control over reactions, and feel more confident navigating challenges.
IFS -
Internal Family Systems
IFS (Internal Family Systems) is a type of psychotherapy that helps people understand, explore, and harmonize the different “parts” of themselves. It was developed by Dr. Richard Schwartz in the 1980s and is widely used for trauma, anxiety, depression, and self-growth. 1. The Core Idea IFS is based on the concept that our mind is made up of multiple “parts,” each with its own thoughts, feelings, and motivations. These parts often develop to protect us, carry our pain, or manage difficult emotions. Common types of parts include: Managers: Protective parts that try to prevent harm or control situations. Exiles: Parts that hold past pain, trauma, or shame. Firefighters: Parts that react impulsively or distract you to avoid feeling pain. At the center of all these parts is your Self — a calm, compassionate, and wise inner core that can guide and heal your internal system. 2. How It Works The therapist helps you identify and understand your different parts. You learn to listen to them without judgment, understanding their roles and intentions. Over time, you develop a compassionate relationship with your parts, allowing wounded parts to heal and protective parts to relax. 3. Key Benefits Resolves internal conflicts and self-criticism Reduces anxiety, depression, and trauma symptoms Enhances self-awareness and emotional regulation Fosters inner harmony and a stronger sense of identity 4. How It Feels Many people describe IFS as a journey of self-discovery. Instead of trying to “fix” themselves, they learn to embrace all parts of who they are, leading to greater balance, compassion, and resilience.
Somatic Practices
Somatic practices are therapeutic approaches that focus on the connection between the body and mind. They recognize that emotions, trauma, and stress are often stored in the body, not just in thoughts or memories. By paying attention to physical sensations, movement, and the body’s natural responses, somatic practices help release tension, regulate emotions, and promote healing. Here’s a clear breakdown: 1. The Core Idea Somatic practices are based on the understanding that the body holds experiences, especially trauma. Stress, anxiety, or past trauma can manifest as tension, chronic pain, shallow breathing, or other bodily sensations. By working directly with the body, these practices help restore a sense of safety and balance. 2. How It Works You notice physical sensations (like tightness, heaviness, or tension) and learn to track how they relate to emotions or thoughts. Gentle movement, breathing exercises, or guided awareness help release stuck energy or tension. Over time, your nervous system learns to regulate itself more effectively, reducing stress and improving emotional resilience. 3. Examples of Somatic Practices Breathwork – using conscious breathing to calm or energize the nervous system. Body scanning – noticing sensations and tension throughout the body. Movement or gentle exercise – yoga, tai chi, or expressive movement to release stored stress. Touch or grounding exercises – techniques to help the body feel safe and present. 4. Key Benefits Reduces anxiety, stress, and trauma symptoms Improves emotional regulation Increases body awareness and mindfulness Promotes a sense of calm, safety, and self-connection 5. How It Feels Many people describe somatic work as deeply grounding and freeing. By tuning into the body, they release emotions or tension that words alone can’t reach, creating a profound sense of relief, presence, and wholeness.