Angelina Conias

A conversation with Angelina Conias

• What led you to choose psychotherapy or counselling as a profession?

  I chose psychotherapy or counselling as a profession because of my deep-seated desire to support individuals in their journey towards mental and emotional well-being. Throughout my life, I've been drawn to understanding the complexities of human nature and the intricacies of human relationships. I find great fulfillment in providing a safe and empathetic space for individuals to explore their thoughts, feelings, and experiences without judgment.
  
  Moreover, witnessing the transformative power of therapy in both my own life and the lives of those around me fueled my passion for pursuing this profession. Whether it's helping clients navigate through challenging life transitions, heal from past traumas, or discover their inner strengths and resilience, I am continually inspired by the profound impact that therapy can have on individuals' lives.
  
  Additionally, I value the holistic approach of psychotherapy, which not only addresses symptoms but also considers the interconnectedness of the mind, body, and spirit. This aligns with my belief in the importance of treating individuals as whole beings and empowering them to cultivate a sense of balance and fulfillment in all aspects of their lives.
  
  Ultimately, choosing psychotherapy or counselling as a profession allows me to blend my compassion for others with my commitment to personal growth and empowerment. It's a privilege to walk alongside clients on their journey towards self-discovery, healing, and ultimately, living more authentic and fulfilling lives.

• Which philosophical approaches have influenced your professional development?

  The philosophical approaches that have significantly influenced my professional development as a therapist include person-centered therapy, holistic therapy interventions, and somatic-based interventions.
  
  Person-Centered Approach:
  Person-centered therapy, pioneered by Carl Rogers, emphasizes empathy, unconditional positive regard, and genuineness in the therapeutic relationship. This approach has taught me the importance of understanding clients' subjective experiences and fostering a supportive environment where they feel accepted and valued.
  
  Holistic Therapy Interventions:
  Holistic therapy considers the interconnectedness of the mind, body, and spirit in addressing psychological issues. It emphasizes treating the whole person rather than just symptoms, incorporating techniques such as mindfulness, relaxation exercises, and individualised treatment plans.
  
  Somatic-Based Interventions:
  Somatic-based interventions, influenced by therapists like Peter Levine and Vessel Van Der Kolk, focus on the connection between the body and psychological well-being. These approaches recognise the impact of trauma and stress on the body, and emphasize techniques such as somatic experiencing and body-centered therapies to address and release stored tension and trauma.
  
  By integrating principles from these philosophical approaches into my practice, I aim to create a therapeutic environment that promotes empathy, acceptance, authenticity, and holistic well-being. This comprehensive approach allows me to address the diverse needs of my clients and facilitate their personal growth and healing on multiple levels.

• Which particular aspects of health or the human journey are you interested in?

  Speciality Areas
  Anxiety | Trauma | Attachment Healing | Stress Burn out | Personal and Professional Resilience | Grief & Loss | Body/Mind Somatic Healing | Self-Esteem & Personal Growth

• What methods do you use?

  Person-Centered Therapy:
  This method allows clients to feel understood, accepted, and valued, fostering an environment conducive to self-exploration and growth.
  
  Holistic Therapy Interventions:
  I incorporate holistic techniques that address the interconnectedness of the mind, body, and spirit. This may involve mindfulness practices, relaxation exercises, and individualised treatment plans tailored to each client's unique needs. By considering the whole person, you aim to promote overall well-being and balance.
  
  Somatic-Based Interventions:
  Somatic-based interventions such as somatic experiencing and body-centered therapies are employed to help clients release stored tension and trauma, facilitating deeper emotional healing and resilience.
  
  Cognitive-Behavioral Techniques:
  My approach leans towards humanistic and holistic methods, however I also integrate cognitive-behavioural techniques to address specific cognitive patterns or behaviours that contribute to clients' distress. This could involve identifying and challenging negative thought patterns, implementing coping strategies, and promoting skill-building for managing emotions and behaviours.
  
  Mindfulness and Meditation Practices:
  Incorporating mindfulness and meditation practices into my sessions helps clients cultivate present-moment awareness, reduce stress, and develop greater self-compassion. These practices complement other therapeutic modalities by promoting relaxation, emotional regulation, and a deeper connection with oneself.
  
  By integrating these diverse therapeutic methods, I create a comprehensive and personalised approach to counselling and psychotherapy. This allows me to meet clients where they are in their journey, addressing their unique needs and facilitating meaningful growth and transformation.

• When do you think the client will start to feel that progress is being made?

  As a therapist, I believe that clients may begin to feel that progress is being made at various points in their therapeutic journey, depending on their unique circumstances and goals. Progress often manifests in subtle shifts, such as increased self-awareness, improved coping skills, and a greater sense of empowerment and agency in one's life.
  
  For some clients, progress may be evident early on, as they experience a sense of relief and validation from being heard and understood in therapy. Others may notice progress gradually over time, as they work through deeper layers of emotional wounds and develop healthier patterns of thinking and behavior.
  
  Ultimately, the client's perception of progress is subjective and deeply personal. It's important for me as a therapist to regularly check in with clients to collaboratively assess their progress and adjust our therapeutic approach as needed to ensure that they are moving towards their desired outcomes.
  
  In my experience, the journey of therapy is often nonlinear, with ups and downs along the way. However, by fostering a supportive and trusting therapeutic relationship, providing practical tools and insights, and celebrating even the smallest victories, I aim to help clients recognise and appreciate the progress they are making towards their goals.

• How has therapy made a difference in your life?

  Therapy has made a significant difference in my life by offering me a guiding light through challenging times. It has provided me with tools to manage stress, cope with life's challenges, and improve my relationships. Through therapy, I've gained a deeper understanding of myself and learned to navigate life's ups and downs with more resilience and self-awareness.

• What do you like most about being a therapist?

  What I like most about being a therapist is the opportunity to witness the profound transformations that occur within my clients' lives. There's something incredibly rewarding about being a part of someone's journey towards healing, growth, and self-discovery.
  
  I find great fulfillment in providing a safe and nurturing space where clients can explore their thoughts, feelings, and experiences without fear of judgment. Building strong therapeutic relationships and witnessing the resilience and courage of my clients as they navigate through life's challenges is truly inspiring.
  
  Moreover, I value the privilege of being able to support individuals in uncovering their inner strengths, gaining new insights, and developing healthier coping mechanisms. Seeing clients break free from limiting beliefs, overcome obstacles, and ultimately thrive is incredibly gratifying.
  
  Ultimately, what I love most about being a therapist is the opportunity to make a positive difference in the lives of others and to contribute to their journey towards greater happiness, fulfillment, and well-being.

• Do you ever have 'bad hair' days?

  Absolutely! Just like everyone else, there are days when things don't go as expected, and I may feel a bit off. Experiencing ups and downs is completely normal. On those "bad hair" days, I make an effort to practice self-compassion and remind myself that it's okay to take a break. I believe that adversity is an opportunity for growth, strengthening our resilience and nurturing empathy.

• What do you think is the most significant problem we face, in the world today?

  One of the most significant problems we face in the world today is the overwhelming pace of life and the unrealistic expectation to have everything together at all times. Constant messages from various sources bombard us, suggesting that we're not enough as we are. This pressure to meet unrealistic standards can lead to stress, anxiety, and a sense of inadequacy. It's crucial for us to challenge these societal norms and cultivate a culture of acceptance, self-compassion, and authenticity.

• Can you share the name of a book, film, song, event or work of art that inspires you?

  One work that particularly resonates with me is "The Power of Vulnerability" by Brené Brown. In this book, Brown explores the concept of vulnerability and how embracing our imperfections can lead to greater connection, resilience, and authenticity. Her insights align with my belief in the importance of self-compassion, acceptance, and embracing our humanity in the face of societal pressures to be perfect. It's a powerful reminder that vulnerability is not a weakness but rather a source of strength and connection in our lives.
  
  Music and art inspire me and are integral to my therapeutic approach. Recognising their capacity to evoke emotions and aid healing, I embrace their inclusion in sessions. Music soothes the soul and allows for emotional expression and relaxation. Likewise, art serves as a powerful tool for self-expression and exploration. I believe in their transformative potential for deeper understanding and personal growth in therapy if the client would like to utilise these tools.