My Counselling Approach

Life is full of twists and turns, and there are times when navigating challenges can feel overwhelming. In those moments, counselling offers a supportive space to reflect and reconnect with what is important to you. My counselling approach is collaborative, grounded in the belief that meaningful conversations have the power to create change.

A Collaborative Space

Counselling, at its heart, is about connection. My approach centres on creating a respectful, and non-judgmental space where you feel seen and heard. I see our sessions as a partnership, with you as the expert in your life and me as a guide to walk with you.

This collaborative process honours your perspective and values. It’s not about prescribing solutions but about working together to identify what feels most meaningful and achievable for you. This shared exploration can uncover strengths and perspectives that might have been overshadowed by life’s challenges, giving you the confidence to take steps toward positive change.

Drawing on Solution-Focused Principles

Solution-focused therapy is all about recognising what’s already working in your life and building on those strengths. Instead of dwelling on problems, this approach invites us to focus on possibilities, goals, and small, manageable steps.

In our sessions, I might ask questions like, “What’s one small thing that’s gone well recently?” or “If things were a little better tomorrow, what would you notice?” These questions help shift the focus from obstacles to opportunities, allowing us to identify practical steps that feel realistic and empowering.

Solution-focused conversations are future-oriented and grounded in optimism. They don’t ignore the challenges you face but instead invite you to see yourself as resourceful and capable. This approach recognises that even in difficult times, you have the tools and wisdom to create change, and my role is to help you uncover and amplify those strengths.

The Influence of Narrative Therapy

Our lives are shaped by the stories we tell about ourselves and the world around us. Narrative therapy invites us to examine these stories and consider how they influence our thoughts, feelings, and behaviours. Some stories may feel limiting or unhelpful, while others can be sources of strength and possibility.

In counselling, we work together to explore the stories that matter most to you. We might look at how these stories have been shaped by your experiences, relationships, or cultural context. Through this process, you can gain clarity about what parts of the story you want to hold onto and which parts you might want to reauthor.

For example, if you’ve been telling yourself, “I’m not good at handling stress,” we might explore times when you’ve managed stress successfully and what made those moments different. By shining a light on alternative narratives, we can create space for new ways of seeing yourself and your abilities.

Narrative therapy also emphasises the importance of your values and the things that matter most to you. Together, we can identify what’s most meaningful in your life and use those values as a compass to guide our work.

The Gift of Client Stories
One of the most meaningful aspects of my work is the opportunity to hear and hold my clients’ stories. These stories are not just moments of connection in our sessions—they often leave a profound mark on me. As I listen to the courage, resilience, and insights of those I work with, I’m frequently moved to reflect on my own life.

In many ways, my clients teach me as much as I aim to support them. Hearing their stories often prompts me to think differently, make changes, and live with greater purpose and gratitude. This mutual exchange—the way we both grow and change through the counselling process—is something I value.

A Relational Process

I’m here to listen, ask meaningful questions, and support you in discovering your own insights and solutions. While I bring professional knowledge and experience, I also recognise and value the unique expertise you bring to our work together.

Counselling is not about fixing you—because you’re not broken. It’s about partnering with you to navigate life’s challenges and celebrate your strengths and achievements. Whether you’re seeking clarity, ways to manage stress, or a supportive space to explore your story, my collaborative approach offers a foundation for positive change.

If this resonates with you, I’d be honoured to work with you. Let’s explore how meaningful conversations can help you move forward with confidence, clarity, and hope.