My Approach
How I work
In psychotherapy, also called 'talking therapy', there are many different approaches and schools of thought. I believe no single approach is 'best' and that it's important to look at issues from different perspectives.
Integrative Psychotherapy allows us to do that effectively. It combines tools and techniques from different schools of thought, taking the best of each approach depending on the issue or situation in question. In essence, this creates an effective intervention programme to alleviate suffering while integrating every aspect of a client's personality; their psychological, emotional, physiological and behavioural traits.
Integrative Psychotherapy Techniques
Psychoeducation
Psychodynamic
Positive Psychology
Mindfulness
Cognitive Behaviour Therapy
Person-Centred Therapy
Transactional Analysis
Systemic Therapy
Motivational Interviewing
Struggling to cope with a particularly acrimonious divorce, I sought help from Dionne at The Positive Mind. For me, therapy needed to be supportive, yet pragmatic, and I wanted to be able to look to the future in a hopeful way. I found Dionne to be caring, patient and understanding. She was very professional and knowledgeable and she provided practical and positive guidance. I felt able to express myself as I wasn't being judged and Dionne truly helped me get through what was a particularly challenging period of my life.
The importance of trust
Often described as "the therapeutic alliance", the values and ethos present in our working relationship are paramount. The three principles core to my therapeutic style are:
I believe these principles to be the most powerful factors in a positive working relationship. Trying to change entrenched behaviours or distressing feelings can be a difficult and emotionally overwhelming process. A strong and positive relationship of trust and respect between client and therapist ensures you achieve your true potential more quickly.
Gerald Corey
Fellow, American Psychological Association.
The therapeutic relationship is the critical variable; not what the therapist says or does
My ethical framework
I understand the thought of working with a psychotherapist may seem overwhelming, or perhaps you are concerned about revealing sensitive and personal information about yourself. Working in an ethical way is essential and a commitment I take very seriously. As a member of the British Association for Counselling and Psychotherapy (BACP), I abide by their principles:
- Being trustworthy and honouring the trust you place in me
- Ensuring autonomy by respecting your right to be self-governing
- Demonstrating a commitment to doing what is right for you
- A commitment to avoiding harm to you
- Ensuring justice through the fair and impartial treatment of all clients
- Respecting your privacy and confidentiality in accordance with current data protection laws
- Encouraging self-respect, self-care and integrity at all times
Confidentiality
As a member of BACP and a qualified mental healthcare professional, I adhere to strict guidelines for protecting your privacy, welfare and personal information.
- I do not telephone or acknowledge clients outside of the therapy room unless they have given me permission to do so.
- During clinical supervision, a requirement of BACP membership, I do not use full names or other identifying information in discussions.
- I keep only brief notes from therapy sessions which are solely for my personal use.
- I keep all personally identifiable information separately and securely in line with current data protection laws. Please refer to my Privacy Policy for more information.
Safeguarding
On occasion, it may be necessary to prioritise safeguarding over confidentiality. For example, if there is evidence of a crime taking place or of significant harm to my client or others. Prior to taking action, however, I will discuss my concerns with the client and endeavour to implement any safeguarding responsibilities in a way that respects their wishes, protects their interests and supports them in what is to follow.