Therapy putting you in charge
Deciding to go to therapy on your own is a huge step and I know how hard it is. The fear is ultimately of the unknown as it is a new experience for many, who worry about being judged by a therapist, being pushed along at a speed that is too overwhelming; or opinions from others. However, in my sessions, it’s the last thing you will come to expect, I will work with you to explore issues as they come up for you in the moment. Unlike more fashionable approaches, working with the person-centred approach, you will have the power to set the agenda for therapy, which can change from session to session. As we address issues together, we will begin to evaluate whether your life matches your core beliefs and values and how you can bring them back into alignment.
Entering a person-centred environment can be daunting as we are so used to the professional taking charge, whether that be a teacher, a doctor or a hairdresser. However, it is my belief that you are the expert of you and actually hold the answers to the problems you are facing in your life. The block to actualising these solutions is the anxiety of what others might think or how they would react, if they knew our true feelings.
Together, it will be our work to explore the true you, comparing and contrasting it with the mask you present to the outside world beyond our sessions. By allowing me in, I will be able to provide you with unconditional positive regard, which accepts you for you, no questions asked.
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The absence of receiving answers, advice or instructions from a therapist may seem odd, yet, when you consider the bigger picture you will have already been exposed and subjugated to advice from a wide range of people, including friends, family members, partners, colleagues etc. No matter how well meaning and how well those people know you, only you truly know you and what is going on inside in terms of feelings, emotions, desires and more.
In our sessions, I will listen to your thoughts and introjected views and opinions sensitively questioning whether they hold true for you; are they coming from you? Or, is it someone else speaking? Statements such as “I should, I could and I would” will be challenged in my sessions as I wonder who is telling you what to do, in addition to what barriers or obstacles are being placed before you to prevent you from leading a happier, more congruent and fulfilling life.
