Modalities of counselling used during sessions

Having been a teacher for over two decades I got to see how people learn in different ways; for some they love to chat and be the centre of attention, for others they prefer a slower quieter approach. One thing for sure was that no two children were the same. I got to see first hand that if I followed the students interests and met their needs they would flourish and thrive independently.

In my counselling sessions I like to tailor each session to meet my client at a place that is comfortable for them. As a "one size fits all" approach doesn't work I will encourage you to take ownership of your sessions, make suggestions about how it runs and adjust my approach to ensure that you are feeling seen and heard by me. I will be there to walk beside you as you go from strength to strength. 

Counselling Modalities are a bit like cars; cars have four wheels so are all the same in that capacity, however there are hundreds of makes and models that sets them apart from each other. For counselling modalities the basis for all sessions is that a counsellor and client  spend time together and the counsellor works with the client to support them with their needs. The difference is that there are a wide range of counselling modalities to use with clients, all of which have different pros and cons and suit different conditions/personalities. 

For me I have a have a couple of main modalities that I like to use with clients and have shared some information about them so that you can see if these will work for you. If you have any questions about these modalities or have heard of other ones that you would like to know if I use them,  please feel free to send me a message to ask. 

Play Therapy

Play is considered to be a child's natural language. By watching them play and playing with them I gain an insight into the inner workings of their mind and discover what is happening in their world. All of this happens in a relaxed fun way so is a natural process for them. Depending on what brings your child to counselling will determine the type of play therapy I offer. I will naturally alternate between the two types of play therapy listed below depending on where your child is at. 

Non-directive/non-structured play therapy I belief that your child ultimately possess the capability to determine the course of the sessions. My role as your child's counsellor is to create a safe environment that empowers them to choose what they want to do in their session and work with them to make this possible.

Directive/structured methods of play therapy involves a more directed approach and planning by me to guide your child through their session. Thoughtful interventions and objectives are planned based on the what your child needs help with. These sessions are still run in a fun and relaxed way, however I may choose the resources that we play with. For example if your child is having problems within social situations I may bring out the dolls and do some role play.

Creative Therapy

• Using creative therapy you will;
• Express and share your inner experiences in a creative way
• Have a healthy, creative outlet for intense feelings
• Learn creative stress management techniques
• Share your problems and concerns through creative expression
• Experiment with and learn how to use a variety of media
• Develop self-awareness and identify areas of concern
• Develop talents and acknowledge your strengths, some of which have been long forgotten

CBT - Cognitive Behaviour Therapy 

CBT  for adults - Is a talking therapy that can help you manage your problems by changing the way you think and behave it focuses on ways that your thoughts, emotions, body sensations and behaviours are connected, and how they affect one another.  

CBT for Kids  -While CBT is a type of talk therapy, it’s so much more than talk. I will work with your child  to provide tangible ways for them to take control and empower themselves. I  will teach your child skills that can be put into practice immediately and help lessen their stress and anxiety. 

DBT - Dialectical behaviour therapy

DBT is a type of talk therapy. It’s based on cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT), but it’s specially adapted for people who experience emotions very intensely. “Dialectical” means combining opposite ideas. Using DBT I  will help you focus on helping you accept the reality of your life and your behaviours, as well as help you learn to change your life, including their unhelpful behaviours.

Mindfulness 

Mindfulness is a way of paying attention to the present moment, using techniques like meditation, breathing and yoga. It helps you become more aware of your thoughts and feelings so that, instead of being overwhelmed by them, you will be  able to manage them.

Trauma Informed Approach 

I understand that traumatic experiences impact your mental, behavioural, emotional, physical, and spiritual well-being. My sessions can offer strategies and teach you skills to help you, cope with life,  process emotions and  the memories tied to those traumatic experiences, with the end goal of enabling you to create a healthier and more adaptive meaning to your life.