What is Integrative Counselling?

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Integrative counselling is an approach that blends various elements from different therapies. Integrative therapists believe there isn't one method that universally suits every client. Instead, they consider each person holistically and customize counselling techniques to fit individual needs and unique circumstances.

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What is the aim of Counselling?

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Counselling seeks to foster healing and support individuals in achieving wholeness by optimizing their mental, physical, and emotional health. Clients must be willing to engage in self-discovery, identify factors that perpetuate issues, and address current concerns.

 

The integrative approach specifically encourages clients to engage with each moment openly and sincerely, without preconceived notions. This helps them focus on fears and emotional wounds that restrict psychological freedom and identify triggers that lead to disruptive behaviour patterns.

 

By cultivating this awareness, integrative therapy establishes a healthy connection between mind and body, empowering clients to set goals and adopt new behaviours that surpass their limitations, enhancing life satisfaction. Therapy also draws on other approaches tailored to the client's unique limits and external constraints to work towards these objectives.

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What are the advantages of Integrative Counseling?

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Integrative therapy's primary benefit lies in its adaptability and comprehensive focus on the individual. By combining various therapeutic approaches, it can be customized to address diverse needs and concerns. This flexibility makes it a more inclusive and versatile option compared to traditional, single-method psychotherapies.

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What does the Client-counsellor relationship look like?

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The demeanor and presence of an integrative counselor are vital components of integrative therapy. It's widely accepted that the most effective approach requires the therapist to be non-judgmental and interpersonal, focusing on building a supportive, cooperative relationship with the client. They must practice deep, attentive listening without preconceived notions that might hinder understanding.

 

This significant partnership and contract between equals is believed to empower clients, helping them identify and address behavioral patterns through change and goal-setting. This element of integrative therapy is often called the therapists' personal integration, as they fully commit to supporting the client's self-exploration.

 

What I offer – What is a typical session?

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It is important to remember that each session is unique and tailored to suit your needs, providing an opportunity for personal expression and growth in a supportive environment.

 

An example of a person centered counselling session

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A typical person-centered counseling session is centered around providing a supportive and non-judgmental environment where the client feels comfortable expressing their thoughts and emotions. Here’s what you can generally expect:

 

Warm Welcome: The session usually begins with a welcoming atmosphere where the therapist greets you warmly, setting a tone of acceptance and empathy.

 

Client-Directed Conversation: You, as the client, direct the conversation. Instead of leading the session with pre-determined goals, the therapist allows you to steer discussions based on what's most important to you.

 

Active Listening: The therapist actively listens, providing full attention without interruption. They might paraphrase or reflect back what you've said to ensure understanding and validation.

 

Non-Directive Approach: The therapist avoids giving advice or solutions. Instead, they focus on understanding your perspective, encouraging self-discovery and personal insight.

 

Empathy and Unconditional Positive Regard: Core to the approach is the therapist's empathy and unconditional acceptance of you, creating a safe space for open communication.

 

Reflection and Exploration: The therapist may reflect on your feelings and thoughts, helping you explore them deeper, potentially aiding in gaining new insights about yourself.

 

Non-Judgmental Support: Throughout the session, the therapist maintains a non-judgmental stance, promoting a genuine and trusting therapeutic relationship.

 

Encouragement of Self-Growth: The ultimate goal is to empower you to harness your inner resources for self-growth and decision-making.
 

Why might online or telephone counselling be for me?

 

Not everyone can attend therapy in person. You might find it difficult to share your need for support with family, or you have limited time and need to fit sessions into your lunch break. Perhaps you're away from home and require support. The reasons for choosing online sessions are as diverse as my clients, with some of the most common reasons listed below.

 

Life is increasingly hectic, making it challenging to fit a therapy session into your busy schedule. By working with me online, you can eliminate travel time and streamline the process.

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You are a student, or the parent of a university student...

Many of my young clients experience the transition to life away from home while continuing therapy. Parents can purchase blocks of online appointments in advance, providing their loved ones with immediate access to ongoing support while they're away.

You are restricted at home due to illness or a young family...

Isolation, lack of support, and life-altering illnesses can impact mental health. Being unable to leave home shouldn't limit your access to quality therapy.