A crisis in our lives can leave us feeling as though things have fallen apart. As though the very ground that we stand on is no longer safe enough to hold us. Our first impression at these times is to see this as something wrong, that needs fixing. This may include the breakdown of an important relationship, or the death of a loved one. There may be a change in our personal or professional circumstances, leaving us feeling uncertain about who we thought we were. 

Many of the clients who come to see me find that in holding these moments of crisis, they are able to see what is asking to be seen or heard amongst the feelings of pain or confusion. Allowing a space for our difficulties to be witnessed can provide unexpected opportunities, which can open us to a deeper relationship with ourselves and the world around us. Carl Jung once said that our symptoms, “may often signify something of great psychological value to the individual”. In this respect our symptoms; which may include depression, anxiety, addictions; or a loss of meaning in one's life can be viewed as having intention and purpose, and not wholly arbitrary. 

This way of seeing ourselves can be challenging for many people and goes against the notion within society that we must aim towards perfection. However the striving for perfection often leaves many people with feelings of emptiness or alienation in their lives.  As though there is a lack of wholeness or completeness in ourselves. Clients are often surprised through the realisation that this notion of completeness can be one which is inclusive of the very things they were looking to get rid of. At these times, the things that appear to be the problem may also be initiating us into a process of re-balancing our lives and greater depth, that leaves us with a new found sense of compassion and understanding for ourselves. Maybe, the things that are pushed aside, can also hold meaning and beauty? 

For some people beginning therapy can feel uncomfortable or embarrassing; believing that somehow we have failed to resolve our problems through our own means. Often behind this belief is a view of self-reliance that can leave us feeling isolated and anxious about not measuring up to other’s perceived expectations. As a psychotherapist, I feel privileged to hear the deep honesty and great courage that many of my clients have in their lives, and how this has helped them cope in difficult and often challenging environments.

Whether this is the first time you have come to therapy, or you have previous experience, I seek to offer support that is tailored to your needs, at a pace that feels manageable for you.