The person centred approach has had the greatest influence over my work. Though having trained under the integrative umbrella I do aknowledge other theoretical philosophies.
Carl Rogers was the founder of the person centred approach and believed that people will, if given the right conditions and opportunities, move toward autonomy and self direction. He concentrated on the individuals perception of self as well as the ways in which they are influenced by others.
One example of this would be the child that looks towards its parents for validation and approval. The childs self concept is developed depending on the reflections and attitudes being expressed by its parents. If positive and with love, the child will feel good but if negative and without love, the child may develop a negative self concept.
The negative self concept can lead many adults to encounter difficulties in life and in need of seeking help. Rogers believed that the client knows best and under the right conditions will become self determining. In my work, I aim to help you to move towards your own inner resources, so that you become more trusting of your truth, emcompass greater self awareness and ultimately are self accepting. The way that I do this is by exploring your life story with you, paying attention to the difficulties that have bought you into counselling, showing unconditional positive regard, empathy and congruence.
Other influences in my work are John Bowlby and attachment therory. Dream work from a transpersonal perspective. Existentialism and Gestalt therapy. I have also recently trained in hypnotherapy, which I believe is a powerful tool when used in conjunction with counselling.
