Philosophy and Approach
My theoretical background is humanistic psychology with a client-centered focus. I typically use an integrated, flexible approach, at times using techniques or strategies from different types of therapy (e.g., cognitive-behavioural, sex therapy, narrative, solution-focused, art therapy, EFT, etc.). This allows me to be more responsive to each client and to adapt the counseling process to each client’s specific needs.
Therapy is not just about dealing with crises. Therapy is also about transformation. The principles of Hakomi and R-CS guide my work and my personal life. [See Box] Ron Kurtz, the originator of Hakomi, believed that the impulse to heal is powerful and lies within each of us. I, too, believe this, and that, as the therapist, I create the ‘context’ within which that healing can occur.
Principles of Hakomi & R-CS
- Mindfulness: a receptive state of consciousness that is focused on inner present experience; in mindfulness, we are curious, without judgement, interpretation, or argument.
- Organicity: honouring the inner wisdom and natural impulse towards growth
of each person. - Nonviolence: change without force; a deep respect for the integrity, strengths,
challenges, and needs of each person. - Mind-body holism: mind and body are parts of a whole (being); mind and body interact and influence one another; the body reflects important information about the whole person.
- Unity: the universe is a web of relationships, of which we are a part; we are connected to each other and to the world; embracing aspects of ourselves that are in conflict or isolation.
- Loving Presence: a gentle, open-hearted, attentive state of emotional connection; experiencing contentment in being with another.
By your own efforts waken yourself, watch yourself, and live joyfully.
At the center of your being you have the answer; you know who you are and you know what you want.
Our patience will achieve more than our force.
It is slavery to live in the mind unless it has become part of the body.
He who experiences the unity of life sees his own Self in all beings, and all beings in his own Self, and looks on everything with an impartial eye.
Surrender yourself humbly; then you can be trusted to care for all things. Love the world as your own self; then you can truly care for all things.