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

I had been struggling to manage my ten-year-old son?s behaviour for some time. He regularly refused to go to school and didn?t want to take part in any of his usual activities. A good friend recommended I take him to see Dionne at The Positive Mind. Initially, my son was reluctant to talk to Dionne but she quickly built a rapport with both of us. I told Dionne about my marriage issues and thanks to her insight it turned out that he was anxious about my husband and I separating. He is much better now and after some family therapy we are all much happier and more united.

GC , Goudhurst

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:

trust

Congruence:
creating an honest and genuine rapport between us

Empathy:
a compassionate understanding of you and your situation

Unconditional Positive Regard:
valuing you exactly as you are

Congruence:
creating an honest and genuine rapport between us

Empathy:
a compassionate understanding of you and your situation

Unconditional positive regard:
valuing you exactly as you 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

More about BACP's ethical framework

ethics compass

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.

Questions

If you have a question about how we might work together or any concerns about confidentiality, take a look at my FAQs or get in touch via my contact page. I'll be happy to talk things through with you.