My Approach
As an integrative counsellor, I work in a way that is unique to the person sitting in front of me and I tailor my approach to the individual. The main schools of practise I draw upon are the psychodynamic approach and the person centred approach.
Working psychodynamically, I am able to explore how the past might be affecting your present. By working in a person centred way, it allows us to explore what is currently going on for you.
The sessions are client lead which will hopefully allow you to feel a sense of empowerment throughout the counselling process.
Other techniques I integrate regularly are:
Cognitive Behavioural Therapy
Mindfulness
Self Compassion practices
Writing practices
Embodiment practices
Breathing techniques
What therapy with me looks like:
I truly believe that creating a strong therapeutic relationship is the key for therapeutic change to occur within my clients. I offer a safe, supportive and non judgmental space for my clients to explore their thoughts and feelings so they can start to understand themselves on a deeper level. I am so passionate about the work that I do as I believe that every single person deserves to find happiness and self acceptance. By supporting my clients in working through their emotional difficulties this can become a possibility.
Counselling is also a space for personal development, not just crisis management. Many people come to counselling to develop a greater level of self-confidence so they can move forward and start to live a more fulfilled and happy life.
“Working with Lydia has made me feel more self aware and better able to cope when things get difficult. I didn't know where to start with therapy, and Lydia has helped to guide me whilst also allowing me to talk about whatever feels natural. I would recommend Lydia to anyone looking to start therapy. You won't regret it.” — Emily, aged 30
How can counselling help you?
Research has found that talking therapy can have a multitude of benefits including:
Processing deeply held feelings and memories
Understanding yourself better
Improved communication and interpersonal skills
Greater self-acceptance and self-esteem
Ability to change self-defeating behaviours/habits
Developing healthier coping mechanisms
Better expression and management of emotions, including anger
Relief from depression, anxiety or other mental health conditions
Seeing your thoughts and situations from a different perspective
Increased confidence and decision-making skills
Ability to manage stress effectively
Improved problem-solving and conflict resolution abilities
“But what we know now is that when we deny our emotion, it owns us. When we own our emotion, we can rebuild and find our way through the pain.”
— Brene Brown
