My approach
I have been trained primarily in relational psychodynamic psychotherapy.
Relational psychodynamic psychotherapy is based on the understanding that we are shaped in relationship, and that many of our struggles today make sense when viewed in the context of our early experiences with others.
Rather than focusing only on symptoms or techniques, this approach pays close attention to patterns. We explore how you relate to others, how you experience emotional closeness or distance, how you manage your emotions, and how you consciously and unconsciously protect yourself when things feel overwhelming or unsafe.
A central part of the work is the therapeutic relationship itself. We consider the way you experience therapy, and the way we relate together, as this can gently reflect important relational patterns from your life outside of therapy. This is not about analysing or judging you, but about becoming curious, compassionate, and more aware. This allows you to experience new ways of relating.
Over time, therapy becomes a place where difficult feelings can be felt and understood, rather than pushed away, buried or turned into somatic (physical body) illness.
Experiences of shame, grief, anger, longing, or fear often begin to soften when they are held within a safe, attuned relationship.
My approach also recognises the whole person. We include ALL aspects of yourself; emotional, relational, physical, psychological, and spiritual (whatever that means to you) dimensions of your experience. Modern psychology and ancient wisdom both teach just how integrative these dimensions are to our overall function in the world.
At its heart, this work is about being emotionally met, understood, and gradually finding more freedom to live and relate with authenticity.
Other modalities offered
During my three years working as a Health Coach within the public mental health framework (Te Tumu Waiora), I received training in a range of evidence-based, behaviourally oriented approaches, including Focused Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (F-ACT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), and Motivational Interviewing (MI).
These approaches can be particularly helpful when you have a clear sense of the health or wellbeing changes you would like to make, and are looking for encouragement, accountability, and practical support alongside you. In this type of work, sessions may be time-limited, with goals that are clearly defined and collaboratively agreed upon