In my therapeutic practice, I work closely with individuals to understand, explore, and confront profound—and often unconscious—conflicts between their authentic selves and the external structures formed to meet societal expectations. This challenging work demands bravery, curiosity, and discipline but offers life-changing outcomes. 

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An integrative style of relating.

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My integrative therapeutic approach blends Person-Centred (PCA), Gestalt, and Psychodynamic theories. PCA as a humanistic approach centred on understanding a relationship in the present, and working from the belief that our core drive is to achieve authenticity and move towards self-actualization, realizing our unique potential (Knox and Cooper, 2015, p.x). PCA establishes a secure base for supporting Gestalt and Psychodynamic relational styles, especially as they often challenge the therapeutic relationship as the work evolves.

 

The dialogical relationship forms a cornerstone of Gestalt practice. It involves being able to genuinely experience of the other person, as a whole being, not as an object or fragmented self (Joyce and Sills, 2014, p.45). This relational approach focuses on a mutual commitment to dialogue the in-between of the relationship. Exploring how the relationship is affecting both the therapist and the client. As a counsellor, I deeply engage with this space, it fosters intimacy and trust. Creates a connection that is powerful, transformative, and dynamic.

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Psychodynamic practice focuses on working with feelings, fantasies, and defences—both positive and negative—that clients may project onto the counsellor without being directly triggered by the counsellor’s behaviour. This phenomenon, known as transference, plays a pivotal role in the therapeutic process (McLeod and McLeod, 2011, p.146). In combining a transference relationship with the Person-Centred Approach (PCA), core conditions, and the Dialogical relationship, the counsellor must navigate a position both within and outside of the client-therapist dynamic.

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To fully engage with an integrated model of therapy, it is crucial to approach these modalities with openness and adaptability. This requires both extensive experience and a deep understanding of diverse relational styles. When grounded in consistent personal therapy, supervision, and continued professional development (CPD), this model becomes a flexible, strong, and creative framework for effective counselling.