What
do I do? You will notice that I avoid the use of the term “disorders”. Although clinically and
professionally I am a qualified diagnostician, I tend to avoid the pathologising medical model constructs. My philosophy is
that people develop a very wide range of coping behaviours and although these may initially be functional, this may change
and such behaviours may then become the cause of additional issues. However, in seeking to manage discomfort in such creative
ways I do not, as a practitioner, view these as “disorders”. I see them as frequently transferable skills that
we can identify, modify and build on to develop new coping mechanisms that may be less uncomfortable.
I help people that want to make changes in their lives. I work with anxiety, stress, depression, bullying, employment
(and unemployment) related problems. I am trained and experienced in working with trauma survivors (Post Traumatic Stress
Syndrome is a particular interest of mine). These include Emergency Services personnel, victims of assaults, childhood abuse,
alcohol and drug related difficulties, victims of crime and domestic violence. Eating disorders, smoking cessation, healthy
living and lifestyle changes are also within my professional expertise. I have specific training in family therapy, as
well as having extensive professional practise supporting individuals with various chronic physical and mental health conditions.
Having been employed
internationally for over 25 years in direct service provision, I have diverse experience, education, training and interests.
I value the variety of perspectives that these opportunities have brought into my professional domain. I believe that
therapeutic relationships are exactly that; the relational dynamic is where change can occur. Appreciating the philosophy
of phenomenology, I believe that my clients will teach me as much as I might them.
How
do I work?
My therapeutic interests include existential, transpersonal and holistic wellness. Sometimes cognitive-behavioural
modalities are effective in managing immediate concerns, and when indicated I will offer these techniques. Intentional selection
and utilization of therapeutic interventions is a skill. Dialogue with the client and clinical insight indicate which techniques
to employ in order to achieve the stated desired outcome. I have extensive experience working with vulnerable and marginalized
demographics. In order to keep myself informed and academically stimulated I enjoy attending workshops and seminars presented
by specialists in particular domains and collaborating with professional colleagues. I find that this encourages me to continue
investigating and broadens my outlook.
Is there
anything else you want or need to know?
I have attached a link at the bottom of the page that
I have found useful in supporting individuals in knowing what questions they have a right to ask a prospective therapist.
Feel free to print it out and take it with you as you interview your potential therapists.
The process of locating a therapist and understanding the profession need not be
mysterious. The next few paragraphs will address some of the questions and misinformation commonly encountered. Often
there appears to be a lack of accessible information for those seeking therapeutic services. On the following page are some
additional considerations and thoughts. It is quite comprehensive, so if you are a "keep it simple" person, this
page will have given you sufficient information; you do not need to continue to the next!
I hope that this has
helped you decide what your next steps will be. Don't forget, you are the consumer! You have the right to choose your therapist.
And a therapist has the right to choose their clients. There will be a good match for both parties; there are plenty of options,
plenty of therapists. You will find the right one to work with you if you talk to some of us. I wish you the best in your
search.
Yours,
Jo
