Psychotherapy Approach

Psychotherapy is both an art form & a science.

We have an ever-growing body of research on evidence-based treatments & strategies for well-being. My knowledge of current research always informs my work with clients.

I have training/experience in a variety of different therapeutic approaches: Dialectical Behaviour Therapy (DBT), Cognitive Behavioural Therapies (CBT), Narrative Therapy, Mindfulness, & Positive Psychology practices. This diverse background allows me to integrate various therapeutic strategies based on the needs of the client. The art of psychotherapy involves being flexible & creative enough to use a practical “what would work best here” rather than a “one size fits all” approach.

More important than any specific technique or philosophy is the relationship between therapist & client. In fact, studies show that the therapeutic alliance is the strongest predictor in therapeutic outcomes. My warm, approachable, & interactive style enables my clients to feel comfortable & understood. This sense of personal connection is crucial for therapeutic change.

My integrated approach is most influenced by the following therapy styles.

Therapy Styles

Dialectical Behavioural Therapy (DBT).

In Dialectical behavioural therapy (DBT), we understand that two things that seem contradictory can both be true. For example, just as we need to accept ourselves as we are, we might also need to change. Through DBT, awareness is raised around the polarities of ‘black & white thinking”, finding ways to entertain & integrate contradictory thoughts.

DBT incorporates healthy doses of Mindfulness skills, or being fully present in the moment.

Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT).

Cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT) emphasizes the connection between thoughts, feelings, & behaviours. Decades of research have found that if you can change the way you think about a situation, you can change the way you feel about it.

In CBT the therapist works with the client to challenge maladaptive thinking patterns in order to reduce negative emotions & behaviors. CBT also emphasizes specific behavioural changes that clients can make to reduce symptoms & improve well-being.

Meditation / Mindfulness.

Meditation is an ancient tradition of calming the mind & body to experience a greater sense of inner peace. Mindfulness is a form of meditation in which one learns to focus attention on one thing, fully present in the moment. In the last few decades, research on meditation/mindfulness has exploded.

There is scientific evidence that meditation/mindfulness can help with everything from lowering stress/depression levels to improving grades to sleeping better. Never fear, you do not need to become a Buddhist or Yogi to derive the benefits of mindfulness. There are simple practices that you can incorporate into your daily life that will help you to let go of the “clutter” in your mind and achieve a calmer way of being.

Positive Psychology.

The field of psychology has traditionally focused on treating psychiatric illness. Positive psychology is one of the newest branches of psychology to emerge, & the research in this area examines how people can live happy, fulfilling, prosperous lives. Studies suggest that sometimes even small changes can yield significant results. For example, expressing gratitude on a regular basis leads to better physical health, optimism, progress toward goals, and well-being.

In the field of positive psychology, the goal is not simply to decrease the “bad stuff,” but to “grow the good.” A special emphasis is placed on identifying & expanding the client’s strengths to build mastery, resilience, & a sense of meaning into their lives.

Frequently Asked Questions

  • During the first few sessions we will talk about the struggles that bring you to therapy, your history, and define your goals. As a therapist, I have a real-life, practical, and straightforward approach. This means I will be actively involved in our sessions, helping you to achieve your goals.

  • How long you will be in therapy depends on your needs. The research suggests that most therapy clients feel improvement in 6-10 sessions and I would expect the same for us. Some clients feel better within that time. Others find that they enjoy the process of therapy and want to continue as their lives change and evolve. My goal is to help you meet your goals as soon as possible. As long as counselling continues to be helpful, I’ll be here to support you.

    The length of time we’ll spend together will depend on your needs as a person/people. Some people come in to address a specific issue while others find that they stay with me for a while as their lives evolve and circumstances change.

  • While I can’t make guarantees, I can tell you that I know growth, healing and change are possible. I see it every day as I witness my clients' relationships evolve and improve.

    Study after study has shown that the quality of the relationship between client and therapist is the most reliable and the most powerful predictor of a positive outcome in therapy.

  • Feel free to contact me by email or phone, for you to determine if I might be the right fit for you. Alternatively, book directly through my online booking system, where you can see my availability. If your need is urgent, please get in touch, as I may have flexibility that cannot be seen online.

  • An initial 90m session to allow us time to share your story, and understand each other is $295.00 (inc GST). Ongoing 50m sessions are $220 (inc GST). The scheduling is up to you and there is no lock in.

    As a psychotherapist I do not need a referral but I cannot offer you a rebate through Medicare, or utilise a GP's Mental Health Plan.

    I am a provider for many of the private health insurers and depending on who you are covered by (and your level of cover), you may be able to claim back some of my fee.

    Let me help you to slow down & cultivate balance, learn to trust your instincts, redirect attention & adjust your attitudes.

  • Dialectical Behavioural Therapy (DBT)

    Incorporates healthy doses of Mindfulness skills, or being fully present in the moment.

  • Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT)

    If you can change the way you think about a situation, you can change the way you feel about it.

  • Positive Psychology

    How people can live happy, fulfilling, prosperous lives.

You deserve it.

Let’s design a life you love.