Our Therapeutic Approaches
There are a multitude of approaches recognized by the UK Council for Psychotherapy, the British Association for Counselling and Psychotherapy, and the British Psychological Association. Our psychotherapists are registered with these bodies and practice the approaches discussed below.
Integrative Psychotherapy
Alejandra and Tatiana practise integrative psychotherapy. Integrative psychotherapy combines elements from different psychotherapeutic and psychological theories to support individuals. It recognizes that each person is unique and that there is no one-size-fits-all approach to therapy.
Integrative psychotherapists draw upon multiple therapeutic approaches, such as person-centred, psychodynamic, existential, Jungian, and Gestalt therapies, depending on the specific needs of their clients. These therapists believe different psychotherapy approaches have something to teach and that no single school can, by itself, hold the truth about how to help a client.
One benefit of integrative psychotherapy is its focus on the therapeutic relationship. The therapist creates a warm, empathetic, and nonjudgmental environment where clients feel safe exploring their thoughts, emotions, and experiences. This trusting relationship plays a crucial role in facilitating personal growth, self-awareness, and positive change. Clients are encouraged to actively participate in their therapy, gaining insights and developing strategies they can apply to daily life.
Integrative psychotherapy is a comprehensive, flexible approach that accounts for each individual's uniqueness. Its benefits include adaptability, a focus on the therapeutic relationship, and client empowerment.
CBT
In addition to working integratively, Tatiana can enhance her work using CBT (Cognitive Behavioural Therapy) techniques. CBT focuses on changing negative thought patterns and behaviours to improve emotional and psychological well-being. CBT operates on the principle that our thoughts, feelings, and behaviours are interconnected, and by modifying our thoughts and behaviours, we can bring about positive changes in our emotions and overall mental health.
The therapeutic process in CBT typically involves several steps. First, the therapist and the client establish a collaborative relationship built on trust and empathy. Next, the client's specific issues and goals are identified, and a treatment plan is developed. The therapist then helps the client become more aware of their thoughts and emotions in various situations, as well as the behavioural patterns associated with them.
With this increased self-awareness, the client learns to examine the evidence for and against their negative thoughts, gaining a more realistic perspective. They also acquire coping strategies to manage distress and enhance problem-solving skills. Through gradual exposure and desensitisation, CBT can be especially effective in treating anxiety, phobias, and post-traumatic stress (PTSD) symptoms, as well as low mood and depression, substance misuse and sleeping problems.
