
Types of Therapy
Therapies I draw on:
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Eye Movement Desensitisation and Reprocessing (EMDR)
EMDR is a structured, evidence-based therapy that helps the brain process and integrate distressing memories so they no longer feel overwhelming. It is especially effective for trauma but has also been used successfully for a wide range of issues including single-incidents, complex and relational trauma, chronic anxiety, phobias, eating disorders, addictions, grief, low self-worth, emotional reactivity and other concerns. EMDR targets unprocessed memories and beliefs that keep clients stuck, supporting change at both a cognitive and somatic level. It can be especially helpful when traditional talk therapy has not led to lasting relief.
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Internal Family Systems (IFS)
IFS is a parts-based therapeutic model that views the mind as made up of distinct parts, each with its own perspective, role, and emotions. It emphasises the importance of accessing the core Self — a calm, compassionate inner presence — to help heal and harmonise the system. IFS identifies three main types of parts: exiles (wounded and vulnerable), managers (protective and controlling), and firefighters (reactive and impulsive). It is particularly effective for trauma, self-criticism, internal conflict, and emotion regulation. Parts work is often integrated with EMDR or other trauma therapies.
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Acceptance & Commitment Therapy (ACT)
ACT helps individuals build psychological flexibility by learning to accept difficult thoughts and emotions rather than fighting them. It focuses on clarifying personal values and taking committed action toward a meaningful life, even in the presence of discomfort. ACT is commonly used for anxiety, depression, chronic pain, and trauma.
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Dialectical Behaviour Therapy (DBT)
DBT combines cognitive-behavioural techniques with mindfulness and emotion regulation skills. It is particularly effective for individuals who struggle with intense emotions, self-harm, suicidal ideation, or borderline personality traits. DBT is often used in individual therapy and skills groups to support emotional regulation, distress tolerance, and interpersonal effectiveness. I also frequently incorporate DBT skills during the safety and stabilisation phase of trauma treatment to help clients build coping strategies and emotional resilience.
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Cognitive Behavioural Therapies
CBT is a structured, evidence-based approach that targets unhelpful thoughts and behaviours. It is widely used for anxiety, depression, and general emotional challenges. CBT-E (Enhanced CBT) is specifically designed for eating disorders, helping individuals address the cognitive and behavioural patterns that maintain disordered eating. Cognitive Processing Therapy (CPT) is a trauma-focused form of CBT that helps clients reframe and resolve stuck trauma beliefs, especially in PTSD.
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Flash Technique & Brainspotting
The Flash Technique (FT) and Brainspotting (BSP) are both trauma-focused approaches used to reduce the emotional intensity of distressing memories. FT involves a gentle, rapid distraction technique (usually blinking) that enables processing without consciously engaging with the traumatic memory. BSP uses specific eye positions (brainspots) and attunement to access and release trauma stored in the nervous system. Both are effective for trauma, anxiety, phobias, and for individuals who find traditional talk therapy too activating.
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Narrative Walks & Movement-Based Therapy
Narrative Walks combine therapeutic conversation with gentle movement, often in nature. This approach integrates story, somatic awareness, and bilateral stimulation to support emotional processing. Movement-based therapy is useful for individuals who feel stuck in traditional talk therapy or benefit from a more embodied, active process.
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Somatic-Based Practices & Polyvagal Theory
Somatic-based therapy involves working with body awareness and sensation to process emotions and trauma. Informed by Polyvagal Theory, this approach helps regulate the nervous system by understanding the body’s threat response and building a sense of safety. It is especially effective for trauma, anxiety, chronic stress, and when talk therapy alone isn’t enough.
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Compassionate Inquiry & Mindfulness-Based Approaches
Compassionate Inquiry is a trauma-informed approach that gently uncovers the unconscious beliefs and body-based stories driving behaviour and emotional pain. Mindfulness-based therapies cultivate awareness and acceptance of present-moment experience. These methods are supportive for addiction, trauma, emotional reactivity, and fostering self-compassion.
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Attachment Theory & Relational Approaches
These approaches explore how early relationships shape emotional patterns, self-worth, and connection to others. Therapy focuses on building secure, trusting relationships both within the therapeutic space and outside of it. It is particularly helpful for relational trauma, low self-esteem, and difficulties in intimacy or emotional regulation.
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Process-Oriented Psychology
Process-Oriented Psychology, rooted in Jungian depth psychology, explores unconscious processes, symbolic meaning, and the inner wisdom held in dreams, body symptoms, and altered states. It is particularly suited to individuals interested in exploring identity, transformation, transpersonal experiences, and deeper layers of personal growth beyond symptom relief.