“The curious paradox is that when I accept myself just as I am, then I can change”
The person-centred approach to counselling, developed by Carl Rogers, is founded on the belief that individuals have an innate capacity for growth and self-understanding.
As a person-centred counsellor, I am committed to providing you with:
unconditional positive regard (accepting you as you are in each moment),
empathy (understanding you from your point of view),
congruence (being real and authentic with you).
For me, this is so much more than an approach but rather a way of being. I believe you are the expert of yourself and a person worthy of being heard, seen and understood.
I will journey alongside you as we explore your challenges, gently delving into your difficult experiences and moving towards self-acceptance and a deeper understanding of yourself. I employ a curious perspective towards you and your story. This encourages you to move beyond your self-judgment and make sense of your past experiences, decisions, thoughts, behaviours and emotions.
If applicable to you, I can also incorporate somatic awareness into my practice which is tailored to support your needs as an individual. This can involve supporting you to tune in to what you are feeling in the present moment, exploring emotions and bodily sensations in relation to your story, and breathing exercises to encourage grounding and connection.
I can also offer education on Polyvagal Theory in which the knowledge you gain about your autonomic nervous system can empower you to respond effectively to dysregulated states (anxiety and depression) with a myriad of self-regulating tools that work for you.