Psychotherapists and Counsellors Answer your Questions
Conversations with Therapists
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What led you to choose psychotherapy or counselling as a profession?
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Which philosophical approaches have influenced your professional development?
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Which particular aspects of health or the human journey are you interested in?
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What methods do you use?
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When do you think the client will start to feel that progress is being made?
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How has therapy made a difference in your life?
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What do you like most about being a therapist?
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Do you ever have 'bad hair' days?
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What do you think is the most significant problem we face, in the world today?
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Can you share the name of a book, film, song, event or work of art that inspires you?
Gidon Weinstein
I’m deeply influenced by humanistic approaches, particularly the concept of being present in the here and now. This has drawn me toward Gestalt therapy, which emphasises mindfulness and authentic...
Ash Rehn
While I have trained in solution-focussed counselling, cognitive behaviour therapy (CBT), Rogerian, humanist and person-centred approaches to therapy, I am most influenced by dialogical and...
Denise Tsirtsakis
I think the study of any philosophy influences anyone in ways that can enhance their problem solving skills, their ability to empathise with people and seeing their world from a different lens.
It...
Karen Potter
Psychoanalytic approach has been the strongest influence both professionally and personally. I have undertaken an analysis myself as well as have Supervision with a Psychoanalyst. In addition,...
Trudy Clutterbok
Deleuze and Guattari, Ranciere, Certeau, Arendt, and Benjamin.
Jisha Syriac
My professional development as a counsellor is influenced by a combination of philosophical approaches, including humanism, existentialism, and person-centred therapy. These philosophies emphasise...
Donald Marmara
THE TASK OF A THERAPIST IS TO START WITH NOT KNOWING
What works for one person does not necessarily work for another.
Our tasks as psychotherapists is first of all to put aside all our knowledge...
Stephanie de Niese
Existential and Catholic philosophies have been two of the most important philosophical approaches that have influenced me.
From a professional perspective, existential philosophy has made a large...
Darius Leo
Much of the way we experience our world is centred around the other people that we encounter. I am heavily influenced by approaches that examine the subjective and contextual elements of these...
Reed Everingham
I enjoy the idea that existence is an embodied experience and that we can learn and grow by connecting our thoughts with feelings grounded in the body. This connection between body and mind is...
Jessica Ryan-Zeman
Too many to name!! I have a particular interest in family systems and attachment theory which very much influences my approach. I also did years of Yalom process group therapy so I am very interested...
Sarah Bergman
Studying and becoming a Gestalt Psychotherapist has had a huge impact on me as a person. I have always been interested in mindfulness and awareness as a solution to my own difficulties. Gestalt...
Lukas Wooller
Viktor Frankl's beliefs resonate with me: that we make our own meaning in this world and that part of the human experience so to find meaning. Exploring and finding our meaning is about understanding...
Helen Basili
Intersectional feminism, anti-oppressive practice, standpoint theory.
Mary A McIntyre
Buddhist psychology and the ancient wisdom traditions (though I am not a religious Buddhist)
Compassionate focus
Emotion Focused Therapy
Internal Family Systems Parts Work,
Somatic...
Abbie Couchman
I love the work of buddhist thinkers like Pema Chodron, who talk about understanding what is, and learning how to just be rather than having an attitude of needing to change or fix our lives. I've...
Nathan Dick
I'd say the most influential philosophies/theories are field theory and attachment theory.
Field theory: I am trained as a Gestalt therapist. One of the foundational pillars of Gestalt therapy is...
Sarah Lawson
I am a Christian and believe in Jesus's simple message that we should love others as we love ourselves and that we should look after those who are lonely or in need.
In later life I have been...
Arna Stewart
I like the psychodynamic approaches because they consider how early attachments and life events shape our view of the world and how we respond to challenges and to each other.
Nicky Angelone
I resonate strongly with Carl Rogers' core attributes of the therapist in counselling being 1) authenticity, 2) unconditional positive regard for the client, and 3) accurate empathic understanding. As...
Vassilka Dimitrova
Existential and spiritual concerns are important to me. It seems everything else comes second ... or third; and what comes second or third is there to inform the first and through which the first is...
Megan Drummond
My professional development has been shaped by several philosophical approaches that align with my values and therapeutic style. Humanistic psychology, with its focus on empathy, authenticity, and the...
Sirini Kularatne-Samarapathi
I started my Buddhist practises of meditation, mindful awareness, deep reflection of going withinat a very young age. This foundation became my life source. It has enabled me to find balance,...
Joshua Comyn
Psychoanalysis, existentialism, phenomenology, systems theory, consciousness studies, attachment theory and integrative approaches to psychotherapy have all influenced my professional and personal...
Michelle Tadros
Realizing that we have the power to change how we think about our experiences—and that we actively create meaning through our interpretations—has been transformative for me. Cognitive Behavioural...
Mark De Calmer
Cognitive-behavioral therapy, the role of thoughts and beliefs in shaping emotions and behaviours. CBT techniques have helped to identify and modify negative thought patterns that contribute to...
John Devling
Humanistic, Person centred, Experiential, Existential, Phenomenological
Adlerian concepts, Psychodrama, Gestalt, Imago relational concepts,
Eleni Kidis
Definitely the philosophical/spiritual teachings of non-dual eastern traditions such as Tantrik Yoga, Daoism and Buddhism. These traditions very much espouse being completely in the moment, exactly as...
Morag Paterson
The philosophical approaches underpinning these therapies: Person Centred Therapy, Existential therapy, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy and my main mode of therapy - Schema Therapy.
Laura Simpson
My professional development as a social worker has been deeply influenced by strengths-based, humanistic, and person-centered approaches. I believe in seeing each individual beyond their challenges,...
Marvel Adeyemi
I believe our thoughts, beliefs and world views influence our behaviours. Therefore, psychoeducation, motivational interviewing, cognitive behavioural therapy, including behavioural interventions,...
Shaun McMahon
Stoicism has had a profound impact on both my personal life as well as my professional life. This ancient philosophy encourages us to evaluate what we do, and do not have control over in our lives....
Jessica Vivien
Buddhist, Sufi, Christian, Jungian, the Yogic Sutras of Patanjali, Charlie Brown, Lunig, amongst others.
Geoff Heard
Relational, Somatic, Psychodynamic, Humanist, Existential, Phenomenological, Systems thinking. The evidence is in to show that the principal factor influencing the outcomes of therapy is the quality...
Karen Curran
I work with the soul - healing of the inner spirit. I believe that change must come from the inside in order to be lasting and most effective. I have studied all kinds of modalities, but working with...
George Turnure
I see most things in the world as: 1) existing on a spectrum (vs binary or black/white) and 2) simply one of many different ways of being, where no one way is better/worse than any others. There are...
Nina Linder
I have a humanistic and eclectic approach that is adaptable for each unique individual.
Daisy Dollisson-Oatley
Process Oriented Psychology
Anthroposophy
Jungian Psychology
Tessa Ipp
I read books about Jungian Psychotherapy, and became involved in play back therapy which increased my self awareness and awareness of the other. I enjoyed the mystery of Jung's approach to making the...
Robyn Mansfield
My core philosophical approach is driven by curiosity, and drawing on techniques that help to create shifts, changes and healing. I am interested in answering questions such as what makes us think,...
Rachel Hannam
Behaviourism, humanistic / person-centred, Gestalt, Buddhism, Psychodynamic theories and Jungian Psychology.
Jila Baker
Arnold Mindell process-oriented psychology has influenced my approach as well as circle work. Family constellations and trauma work have also contributed to my development professionally and...
Dee Hardy
Being Non judgmental and totally accepting of others - we are all individuals and that should be celebrated, not berated or crushed.... I love the uniqueness of all...and not to take personally...
Carolyn Choy
I hold a respect and appreciation for difference and always try to look at the world with a loving heart. I feel life wouldn't be as rich an experience if everything were always smooth-going - even...
Leah Wilson
Several philosophical approaches have profoundly influenced my professional development. These approaches align with my belief in the holistic nature of human experience and the importance of...
Sally Hainey
With clients presenting with trauma issues, I like to use polyvagel theory by Stephen Porges, complimented by Deb Dana's clinical interpretation of the autonomic nervous system. This approach helps...
Gregory Egan
In my years of field experience I have found the more psychosocial, person centred, self reflective, holistic and strength based approaches to social work practice have influenced the way I work in...
Karen Rose
I have been greatly influenced by the strengths perspective which is core to social work practice - looking at how to utilise the unique strengths of individuals (this includes both inner strengths...
Sheela Paul
Psychodynamic theory, inner child work, narrative therapy and solution focused therapy.
Kerriann Dear
I was fortunate to have a teacher who took his students through the evolution of psychotherapy and family therapy. Jung work was an early inspiration and the archetypes still inform my work. I love...
Tim Fraser
I have a degree in political science and have spent many years volunteering for social causes, so I'm an activist almost as much as I'm a therapist. I care deeply about justice, and while...
Stelle Shakti
As a geneticist, I love the nature vs nurture debate. My personal view is that our genes influence our psyche. However, both my personal & professional experiences have shown me the crucial role that...
Elaine Ford
Existential philosophy, psychodynamic theory, neurobiology have been the main approaches that resonate with my approach.
David Anthony
Working with children impacted by intergenerational trauma introduced me to “trauma-informed care”. This has become the most important tenet of my work, regardless of whether the client has a...
Jonathan Tandos
Most of all I've been influenced by Internal Family Systems (IFS), attachment theory, developmental psychology and identity development processes. I've also been influenced by psychoanalysis and...
Maddy Kretschmer
- Jungian ideas about the unconscious, exploring the shadow and attending to our inner life.
- Existential concepts - such as the impact of death awareness, our freedom, our agency within choice,...
Felix Perigrie
Narrative and Existential counselling have had huge effects on me. As a baby goth kid, asking The Big Questions and thinking about death came pretty naturally, and existential counselling helped me...
Natasha Lawrence
Person-centred work has driven my approach and development. This is the starting point with every client to establish a relationship and trust. Once this is in place, I like to work with parts, based...
Nicola Kickbusch
I have always liked supporting others to look at the big picture when they are facing challenges and helping to guide them to use their strengths to solve problems.
Stefanie Marris
Because I come from a sociology background I am greatly influenced by the bio-psycho-social approach to therapy. This means that I look beyond the person, their thoughts and behaviour and see the...
Steven Segal
I have a PhD in philosophy and have always focused on the contribution that philosophers make towards understanding and responding to mental health concerns. In the Western tradition of thought this...
Veronik Verkest
I have been influenced by Husserl and his philosophy of phenomenology. This sees me accepting and staying with each individual's subjective reality rather than 'treating' the individual as an object...
Corina Johns
I think it is fair to say I am fairly existentialist - I believe one of the most important things for us to do in life is find and create meaning. I believe strongly that truth is a subjective thing -...
Tanya Robinson
Psychodynamic psychotherapy resonates with me and has influenced my practice style. Psychodynamic psychotherapy (insight-orientated therapy) is the interpretation of mental and emotional processes and...
Martina Palombi
Several therapeutic frameworks have influenced my work as a therapist in the course of my career. Theravadan Buddhism and Gestalt Psychotherapy were the initial frameworks I used, as well as to a...
Steve Bonanno
This is a hard one to put into words.
As a youngster, I loved this quote from The Little Prince: It is only with the heart that one can see rightly; what is essential is invisible to the eye...
Michael Dods
I draw from an eclectic mix having always enjoyed reading authors who explore psychology and the human condition: William Blake, Martin Luther King Jnr, Ursula Le Guin, Thomas Moore, Robert Moore,...
Nina Green
I have been deeply influenced by what's known as the third wave of cognitive therapies - approaches that are more focused on becoming more skilful at navigating our whole human experience - just as...
Dee Kumbukage
Throughout my professional and personal development as a counsellor, I have been influenced by a range of philosophical approaches that have shaped my understanding of human nature, personal growth,...
Michele Watson
I've spent a lot of time reading Jung and I am very influenced by the work of Marie-Louise von Franz and Barbara Hannah, two extraordinary female Jungian analysts.
David Mandrake
A number of different philosophical approaches influenced my professional practice. This includes: Some of the biblical lessons I learned as a child, Buddhist philosophy, other religions and...
Kelsey Hendrickson
Yogic philosophy and Buddhism have both had major influences in both my professional and personal development. As a long term yoga teacher, the practices of mindfulness and breath awareness are a big...
Kathleen Goossens
Existential and relational theories - the big questions in life. Reading and study. My own spiritual journey and travels. Valuing multiple human and cultural perspectives and diversities. The...
Dalit Bar
Art therapy and mindfulness supported me in the healing process. These approaches helped me overcome my own challenges in life and encouraged me to help others to find their own meaning through...
Nick Batty
We may at times feel broken, but we are not broken, it's just a feeling and we can bounce back emotionally, recover and restore our sense of self.
Weiyu Guan
Phenomenology - a rigorously open and descriptive orientation to subjective experience.
Intersubjectivity - meaning making is an emergent process arising from the interplay between agents,...
Laura Emilia Escudero
The three main modalities described below are what I refer to as the three threads of my work .
Each one has a unique approach to the whole human being. In the evolution of this work, that has...
Jaya Narayan
I am interested in neuroscience affirming, strengths driven learning that center the body and are trauma informed. Additionally I ongoingly focus on my personal work so I can keep myself attuned and...
Ren Slade
So many! Most recently, queer and crip theories: the idea that the way we are told we should meet particular milestones in life doesn't necessarily work for us queers and people with disability. And,...
Treena Mossop
I work from a Integrated Cognitive-Psychodynamic Perspective. In the course of individual counselling therapy I draw on a wide range of areas in which I have experience and training including:...
Philipa Thornton
All my mentors have been kind and supportive. I am influenced by the ideas of Foucalt, Jung. Freud and Watson. This means I believe in the past and our future, I am totally convinced we can be our own...
Stefan Durlach
My original training had 3 main orientations: Existential/phenomenological, psychoanalytic/ Jungian, and humanistic/transpersonal. Over the last few years I have developed a strong interest in...
Gabby Skelsey
Carl Rogers' humanistic approach based on client centred therapy.
Vivian Baruch
For over 20 years I've focused on a Client Directed Outcome Informed approach devised by Scott D. Miller & Barry L. Duncan. This puts the client in the driver's seat of their therapy. My philosophy is...
Christopher Basten
Humanistic psychology - especially the idea that we can help others when we focus on them as a individual whose life events have shaped them uniquely and who deserves as much respect as anyone else.
Sharn Waldron
I am a Jungian Analyst and use the framework of analytical psychology.
Ashley White
The way we 'do' emotions influences how we view ourselves and others, and how we act in the world. I'm convinced that in an effort to cope, many people develop creative ways to interfere with natural...
Philip Hilder
A blend of Eastern (Buddhist and Toaist) and Western philosophy.
David Indermaur
Rejecting the dogmas, prescriptions and proscriptions that came with my up bringing in the catholic church at an early age I found the approach of Buddhism the most useful as it asked us to question...
Max Rutherford
The philosophical approaches that have most influenced me are: The Conversational Model of Russell Meares; Existential Psychotherapy (Irvin Yalom, Robert Miller), Psychodynamic Psychotherapy (Adam...
Katie Beckwith
My holistic counselling and psychotherapy studies were founded on Jungian philosophy and process oriented psychology. My own personal beliefs align with these approaches and I add my own spiritual...
Robyn Price
Long before neuroscience gave it credence, I knew that the body and mind were interconnected and that a person could tap into their personal material through either. In my world view, thinking was not...
Rosa Oyta
My career and work as a psychologist is influenced by humanistic philosophy which places emphasis on individual growth, self-actualisation, and the potential for individuals to make their own choices....
Jim Filshie
Client-centred (or person-centred) therapy is my main influence. It's the only truly non-directive approach. To me it is not just an approach to therapy, but a deeply philosophical concept about being...
Lisa Paul
My main approach which has also made a huge difference in my own life has been the work of Dr Richard Schwartz. He developed the evidence based Internal Family System model of therapy and I have...
Meg Bonnell
I've always been attracted to humanistic principles - those that put the person at the centre, rather than their 'problem', diagnosis, or difficulty. I think seeing each person as unique allows for a...
Uri Bookman
I am deeply influenced by earth-centred indigenous cultures, the Tao, and Buddhist psychology. Growing up in a rural area, taking care of our mother earth has been one of my top priorities. I feel...
Nicol Thomas
The practice of psychoanalysis as explored by Jacques Lacan, whilst difficult to understand, helped me learn that there is no 'ONE' approach to life and living; that we each need to find our...
Suzanne Rosenberg
I strongly believe that each person does know what s/he wants and needs, but that this 'knowing' has been so long buried under a pile of survival strategies that the person no longer sees a way...
Rina Taub
Victor Frankel's work on Man's Search for Meaning
Dr Edith Eger The Choice
Michael White and David Epston co founders of Narrative Therapy.
“Like panning for gold in an overworked stream...
Teresa Wilkinson
I have been profoundly influenced by attachment theory. What we learn (experience) in childhood about relationships becomes unconscious patterns and leads to our future relationship patterns. Our...
Lisa Moore
I am a humanistic therapist at heart. There are many therapies and theories I follow in the humanistic tradition. For example, Alfred Adler's ideas of self-acceptance and separation of tasks can...
Jacquie Flecknoe-Brown
Of course, Dr. Jung's philosophy and dream interpretation method became the approach I use. The Dreamer's Odyssey (out in March 2020) is a fun and creative guide for both lay people and counsellors to...
Linda Sawrey
It's really for me about discovery and creating awareness of who we are, right now in this moment. That was huge for me as I was so task and goal orientated. I have now completely changed my view on...
Tania Djipalo
The most significant training and philosophy is my Gestalt training. It has literally given me a relationship with myself. I also have a deep connection to Rudolf Steiner and Anthroposophy, which has...
Tamara Pallos
I studied philosophy as an undergraduate at university and was influenced by psychoanalysis and existentialism, as they were major strands of twentieth century philosophical thought. When I first...
Michele Stewart
The two greatest approaches for me have been studying Existential psychotherapy and the work of Irvin Yalom. This always brings me back to the idea that for all of us a desire to find meaning, purpose...
Patrick O’Brien
Through my early training as a psychologist, I developed counselling skills in cognitive-behavioural therapy, solutions-focussed therapy, acceptance and commitment therapy, and narrative therapy. In...
Michelle Morris
Transpersonal Psychology, which is a bridge between psychology and spirituality and focuses on intellectual, emotional, spiritual, physical, social and creative aspects of being.
Jungian Psychology,...
Nigel Bailey
I see the world very much from a humanist perspective. I believe that we are all ultimately responsible for ourselves. This need not be an overwhelming burden, but rather an opportunity that...
Alissa Knight
1. Honesty.
I think it is just so important to be your true self and embrace realness, transparency, and openness. If you want others to trust in you, connect with you, and build genuine, lasting...
Sudhir Dean
I am ultimately an existential therapist. In one way or another we are on a philosophic quest, as well as a psychological one. In this context I have learned to respect multiple therapeutic...
Ron Dowd
I originally did a Master in Engineering in AI and when I'd finished I was disappointed that I couldn't see a future in it for me.
Then I spent a lot of time reading Jung. I'm still very...
Angelina Conias
The philosophical approaches that have significantly influenced my professional development as a therapist include person-centered therapy, holistic therapy interventions, and somatic-based...
Matthew Austin
I believe that when we befriend our emotions we can live more vividly and wholly. This principal drew me to training as a Gestalt Therapist, it also drew me to IFS and EMDR.
Karen Druce
There are many philosophical approaches which have influenced who I am as a person and a therapist. My own Jungian analysis forms the core of how I approach therapy. Originally I was trained in...
Leigh Fraser-Gray
I do not try and 'fix' anyone.... I don't believe they are broken. I do however believe in a strengths based, person centred approach to best support the individual to feel empowered and become their...
Carolyn Zantis
Early influences were the Eastern spiritual philosophies, particularly Buddhism. I learned from the Buddhists that how we think and behave have influence in the world. That we can effect change...
Kate McMaugh
I am influenced by psychodynamic and sensori-motor theories in particular. Mindfulness is also an approach that I have grown to love (although I assure you it was not a natural approach for me...
Tom Skotidas
Many philosophical approaches have influenced me. Two of my key influences:
- Wittgensteinianism
- Existentialism
Nicole Kinnaird
I love this question! It's hard to keep it short tho. Since childhood and adolescence I have been interested in spirituality. As a young person I loved music, being in Nature (swimming, bushwalking,...
Andrew Macdonald
I subscribe strongly to elements of a narrative approach. I believe the problem is the problem, rather than the person is the problem, I am curious of the subconscious patterns we develop over time...
Amanda Dounis
In the most recent of times I am continuously learning how to include mindfulness and self compassion into every session. I am a believer of the power of cognitive behaviour therapy as I see how...
Anthony Hubeck
Gadamerian Hermeneutics in terms of research methodology and trying to get as close to possible to capturing the essence of human experience.
Zoe Hedges
Many all the way to the basics of Maslow's Hierarchy of needs in University and forward through Solution Focussed therapies and Somatic therapies to pluralistic therapy. Believing different techniques...
John Bacash
Existentialism Psychoanalysis, Object Relations Band Therapies, Phenomenology, St Paul's Theology.
My philosophical approach is that we all seek transcendence. We all seek our freedom and...
Ruth Edwards
If I were to name one philosophical approach that has influenced my professional and personal development, it would be Existentialism. As we travel through life, bigger questions arise. What is our...
Natalie Meijer
Process Orientated which is very eclectic which marries very nicely to my Daoist practices - following the flow of what is emerging in the client and life , also the concept that 'the obstacle is the...
Ajay Hawkes
Acceptance & Mindfulness are keys for me.
I began my personal development journey by working on identifying things I didn't like about myself and working at changing them. Essentially fighting with...
Bronwen Bailey
My belief is that we are the product of our experience and meaning making, more than we are the outcome of genetic expression. Furthermore, my belief is that mind and body are one. So approaches that...
Julian O'Sullivan
Cognitive psychology and psychodynamic/psychoanalytic theory. Related to this, I have been influenced by Socrates and the Socratic method quite heavily as well.
Karen Anderson
My original training in developmental and educational psychology gave me an appreciation for the important process of attachment and when ruptures to attachment occur the subsequent impact of loss and...
Ernst Meyer
I consider the work I do as applied philosophy. It is guided by humanistic philosophies.
Michelle Lam
I believe that after food, water and shelter, the relationship that we have with ourselves and each other directly influences the quality of our lives. While relationships can sometimes be difficult...
Melodina Thomas
Several philosophical approaches have significantly influenced the field of counselling and have shaped both professional and personal development in this domain. One is this philosophy - it...
Lisa Barrett
Person centred and humanistic approaches have always appealed to me and I have been influenced by more holistic philosophies. I'm currently working primarily with IFS, Internal Family Systems.
Petra Lansdown
My training in Systemic Therapy has allowed me to work with clients exploring their past and current relationships and making sense of the interactional patterns and dynamics and how this could be...
Jennifer Fox
Existential and phenomenological questions, reading and study. Taoism and Buddhist studies and practice.
Moira Joyce
I was very much influenced by a Jungian psychologist I studied under, so Analytical Psychology affected my early career. Then I was affected by Systems theory and Narrative Theory in a big way, so I...
Debby Heath
I have learnt from many different philosophical approaches in my life and training, including humanistic, holistic, contemporary psychodynamic, transactional analysis, relational, existential,...
Isabelle Truong
My professional and personal development have been influenced by the Buddhist's concept that nothing is fixed or permanent. Everything is subject to change and to cope with life challenges, we need to...
Tim Harvey
In our daily lives, we can feel stressed, anxious, frustrated and angry. We face crises causing us to make difficult choices.
We may ask ourselves “Is this all there is to life?â€....
Urja Refalo
I have been largely influenced by Gestalt therapy and meditation. Holism, existentialism, humanism, the eastern philosophies of Zen and Buddhism, some of which are the roots of Gestalt's philosophical...
Stefanie Hagger
There are a number of therapeutic approaches and philosophies that I use within the counselling arena based on an individuals need. Some include the following.
Humanistic approach is a perspective...
Natalie Anderson
My studies in Existentialism and Buddhism still resonate in relation to the way that we can impose significant anguish and suffering on ourselves through our internal conflicts. However, they also...
Karen Thomas
Eugene Gendlin's Focusing approach that is underpinned by his philosophy of the implicit, opens up a whole new world perspective that lies beyond those recognised by the usual cognitive behavioural...
Tim Coates
Regarding philosophical influences on my professional and personal development, I've been naturally drawn to a solution-focused approach from my software development background. It's all about...
Michael Booth
My training and experience as a scientist taught me how to discern reliable, useful information from the oceans of false and misleading information on the web. I have been learning about and...
Julie Sweet
Several modalities and frameworks influence my practice as a psychotherapist. Attachment theory and trauma informed principles underpin my approach. As well family systems and person-centered...
Sharon Snir
The 12 Levels of Being
Learning to live a meaningful and joyful life after experiencing tragedy, disaster and loss.
Matty Silver
Coming from an open-minded society (The Netherlands) which view sex as a normal part of life, I realised that Australians view sex very differently to the way I did and it saddened me that there is...
Jess Siegle
Person-centred therapy and attachment theory have been very influential in my personal and professional development.
Attachment theory greatly assisted me to understand more about myself, and who I...
Hadass Segal
I am eclectic in my approach to therapy, but I am indebted to the work of Irving Yalom, Melanie Klein, Alfred Adler, Bessel van de Kolk, Pat Ogden, Nancy McWilliams and John and Julie Gottmann for my...
Jenny Sanbrook
I have largely been trained in family systems theory which emphasises a persons system as contributing to their well being and/or unhappiness. I also subscribe to a humanistic view of counselling that...
Amber Rules
I have a fondness for existential, absurdist and nihilist thinkers, but I'm not particularly attached to any - I lean on all types of thinking and approaches, both personally and professionally. I...
Deborah Rollings
Mindfulness
Dream therapy
Internal Family Systems
Psychoanalytic Psychotherapy
Nicole Rikos
Professional and personal development is a continuous journey for me, there is really no end to healing and growth. I have been fortunate to have had great mentors and undertaken studies with...
Victoria Redbard
Gestalt, Jungian and Rogers have been the most interesting to me through out my journey. I love Gestalt for the depth of presence and direct feedback from the body, I also really appreciated Fritz...
Anna Petinsky
So much of western psychology have roots from the east, we just label the principles a little differently. Buddhism and philosophy influence me. They are great catalysts for increasing awareness and...
Margaret Bennett
A wide range of trauma, existential. experiential trainings in Australia and internationally. Studies at Harvard University cemented my commitment to human rights and trauma and recovery.
Debbie O'Connor
I am influenced by many philosophies, but in particular those that emphasise our human connectedness, and the profound effect that relationships have on the way that we experience each other, the...
Jacqueline Nevin
Belief systems have a substantial effect on how people cope with adversity. My philosophy does not hold true to any particular approach other then learning about the individual. their strengths and...
Jacqueline McDiarmid
Family therapy - I am so pleased that upon graduating, my first clinical supervisor suggested I would be a good Family Therapist. It's lively and fast paced work which suits my personality.
Jessica McMillan
Buddhism is at the basis of my personal and professional development. The power to watch emotions, thoughts and feelings as they arise, without having to push them away, or judge them, offers...
Karin McLennan
As a practicing Buddhist and Yoga Practitioner for over 25 years, I have learnt techniques to observe and calm the mind and/or sympathetic nervous system. Its during those moments of pain and...
Geraldine McKay
I have been greatly influenced by systemic family therapy and it informs my approach to therapeutic work, supervision work and
I have an appreciation for a range of approaches and can draw on these...
Deb Gavan
Feminist and anti oppressive practice are at the heart of my work and development. These are the reason I chose to train as a social worker rather than another discipline. Social work has a broad...
Jean Gamble
I have always had a great interest in the body and have been searching most of life for a place of belonging - both within my own body and soul and in the temporal world. I found that somatic...
Laura Wilson
Self psychology
Developmental psychology
Neuroscience
Spiritual traditions
Mystics
Mindfulness
Mediation
Yoga
Quantum field theory
Giulia Fiore
Stoicism is the philosophy that resonates with my life beliefs the most. Aligned with stoic principles, I learned to focus on what is in my control and accept what is not within my control.
Elizabeth Fairbanks
Internal Family Systems.
Psychodynamic Theory.
Buddhist Psychology.
Mindfulness-integrated Cognitive Behaviour Therapy.
Miranda Fagan
I am very inspired by the works of: Janina Fisher, Pat Ogden, Babette Rothschild, Bessel Van Der Kolk, and Peter Levine. I find the way they blend neuroscience, attachment theory, sensorimotor...
Lissette Endacott
I am passionate about healing through creativity and the empowerment that comes through expressing yourself in unique and meaningful ways. Connecting in a spirit, soul and body way has been a...
Magdalena Jantac
Gabor Mate and his compassionate enquiry approach to trauma.
Carl Jung and transpersonal psychology
Client centred approach
Penny Downy
I believe in offering a holistic service which incorporates a number of philosophical approaches and so always work from a trauma informed, client-centred, strength based approach. My work is tailored...
Conny Davis
I believe in every persons ability to be the master of their own life, to create fulfilment and live with purpose and a better awareness of what makes meaning to them and not be swayed by outside...
Bronwyn Davies Glover
I am influenced by the humanist and somatic philosophies. Humanism reflects deep valuing of human dignity, fulfilment, potential affirming that individuals have the ethical right and responsibility to...
Ivan Cunningham
With counselling I have learnt a great deal about human behaviour and my awareness continues to expand. I love the approach of Socrates, who taught that each person is born with full knowledge of...
Howard Colin-Thome
Initially Carl Rogers in terms of his client centred approach was very influential. I was also influenced by the importance of emotions, attachment history and interpersonal issues affecting human...
Mairead Cleary
I am primarily guided by a nature-based philosophy. I believe that whatever our question might be... the answer lies in nature.
I am heavily influenced by Taoist philosophy, the Soulcentric work of...
Mary Cantrill
My professional career in working with couples, families, particularly in areas of mental health, grief and loss, and trauma, has been shaped by a diverse range of philosophical approaches. Initially,...
Kerstin Buccoliero
Practicing Buddhist meditation and Yoga for a long time, I tend to follow some of the adjacent philosophies. For many years I also explored shamanism as I found a great understanding of my near-death...
Sharon Bonello
My approach to life is generally to realize that when we are in a difficult phase of our lives, it will pass.....
That it is about working tirelessly to find the best outcome and moving on with...
August Black
The foundation of my work alongside others, is Narrative practice; a culturally aligned, nonblaming, and de-pathologising approach, that is collaborative, and centred on the individual or groups'...
Christine Bennett
One philosophical approach to my professional and personal development is existentialism. This approach emphasizes individual freedom and choice, and encourages individuals to take responsibility for...
Sandy Beech
I work within a group setting throughout the year called Quest for Life with an integrative approach that includes relaxation and mindfulness strategies that are backed up by up to date science based...
Duda Baldwin
I have been influenced in my personal and professional life by the Stoic philosophy and Tibetan Buddhism. I personally practice both but do not call myself religious, rather spiritual.
I have been...
Heather Adams
Carl Jung was I believe certainly correct when he stated 'Who looks outside dreams, who looks inside awakes.' This has certainly been the experience for my own journey. The integration of mind and...
Janelle Wright
I'm strongly influenced by attachment therapy, self psychology, intersubjective approaches, somatic integration and systems theory.
John Woodcock
Most of what I know about our human existence has first been taught to me through my own dreams, amplified by some teachers and mentors throughout my life. This access to dreams and their wisdom...
Judith Withers
initially it was Sigmund Freud, then Fritz Perls, Albert Ellis and then it was CBT (behaviour modification)
Michael Vaccaro
I have been influenced by many differing approaches, philosophies and therapists. I love working with mindfulness, self compassion, inquiry and psycho-education. I love the work of mindfulness teacher...
Graeme James
No one particular approach is right for everyone. Usually one approach or another will resonate with us more than others. Learning how to be a therapist and work with others requires much more than...
Michelle Lin
Trauma-informed practice!
Attachment theory - and it's corresponding models/frameworks (of which there are many!)
The dialogical approach based off Open Dialogue is a recent training I did that I...
Mia Kennedy
Most of my experience has been in mental health and addiction which is heavily associated with trauma. Therefore, I am a trauma-focused and informed practitioner and am influenced by modalities that...
Gabriele (Gabe) Marranci
A diverse range of philosophical approaches has shaped my professional and personal development. Initially, during my undergraduate and master's studies in Italy, I was deeply influenced by Jungian...
Clara Luxford
I love the Japanese idea of Kintsugi where repairing a broken object with gold, transforms what appears damaged or imperfect into something beautiful. This art form is given time, attention and...
Andrew Lindsay
I would say three main philosophies: Daoism from the point of view following what is naturally happening and discovering how it is somehow right or has meaning if unfolded with awareness; Empirical...
April Lewis
My training as a Somatic Psychotherapist involved a thorough grounding in a mixture of the best established psychotherapeutic theories, from roots in Freudian psychology, through the many different...
Martin Hemsley
I grew up in a Catholic family. In my adult life I have been very influenced by Buddhism and Taoism, and for the past 25 years by shamanism and Jungian psychology, which underlies Process Work.
I...
Megan Haire
When I was a struggling teenager, I had a light bulb moment while reading Your erroneous zones by Dr Wayne W Dyer. It was the first time I realised that my mood was connected not to what happened to...
Heather O'Neill
I truly admire psychodynamic therapy, and began learning this topic whilst at the Churchill Clinic. I believe it is the best origin of therapy, creating transformational and long lasting changes for...
Oliver Brooke
Carl Rogers's Person-Centered (PC) philosophy has had the greatest influence on my professional style. I intentionally foster an attitude of positive regard, acceptance, non-judgment, empathy, and...
Dian Abdurachman
Rather than mentioning well defined terms, I will describe in my own words:
-The therapist is not the person 'who knows it all' and not the person who decides what is good for their clients (apart...
Sonia Scussel
I believe in Self-Compassion and Minfulness, these are very powerful tools. Learning to accept and love yourself is a beautiful journey. Depending on the client needs I also use Person-Centred and...
Carolyn Spillett
Three approaches have greatly influenced my professional development. Firstly, underpinning all else is the concept that the client is central to the process and that the relationship between the...
Debra Sumner
Being Mindful and 'Believe and Achieve' which includes never giving up on learning.
Mark Walker
Two of the most famous founders of psychoanalytic practice - Freud and Jung - despite their historic separation, I see as rejoining in modern practice. The most influential people and approaches for...
Alicja Weidner
Strength Perspective, Positive Psychology Humanistic Approaches, and Ericksonian Hypnotherapy
Priya Rajan
As a mental health practitioner, I use a humanistic and integrative approach in providing services to clients, with a well-rounded therapeutic experience that addresses both the symptoms and...
Melis Topsahin
Studies have shown that emotion/cognition and the physiology of a person are all intrinsically linked to one another. My philosophical approach has been influenced by a real-world, everyday approach....
Penelope Lovegrove
I was a practicing Buddhist for more than 20 years so this has very much influenced my personal development. Having said this I do not believe that this philosophy is the only philosophy nor the...
Sophie Swart
I am heavily influenced by and integrative approach to counselling. This means, my therapeutic work combines aspects of multiple approaches to meet the unique needs of clients. I lean towards...
Denise Howells
I am very interested in unconscious processes ie those actions or behaviours that seem to be out of place.
I find the exploration of these impulse behaviours fascinating. I enjoy working with...
Volker Krohn
From my exploration of various Spiritual practises over the years, like Yoga, Vipassana meditation, Tantra, Animism, Existentialism, Prayer, etc. I have come to the realization that human...
Christina Kioulafas
I believe the psyche can heal itself, meaning with the right support and guidance, we have the capacity to heal ourselves. The client is expert and the therapist is merely there to facilitate growth...
Robin Wilkinson
Trauma-informed practice: we all carry some degree of trauma, whether it's personal or intergenerational.
Attachment theory: the way we neurobiologically bond to other humans is fascinating and so...
Brian Whiter
I am influenced by both, Eastern and Western philosophies. I have studied Tibetan Buddhism since 1992. I started classical yoga at an Ashram in South India in 2006 and have continued to be influenced...
Steve White
The work of Freud, Jung, Winnicott and many others with an interest in understanding the mysteries of unconscious processes.
I have also practiced meditation for 35 years. This practice was initially...
Natalie Incledon
I highly value a range of therapies, including more cognitive therapies such as CBT, and emotion-focused therapies, such as psychodynamic therapies. I believe it is not in the therapy that creates...
M.Rose Hoey
Attachment Theory, Psychodynamic Theory and Neuroscience give me the confidence to know that patients can make character changes in a short period of time. And that as an ISTDP therapist these are the...
Marcus Dally-Law
There are some clear influences in the counselling sphere - Person-centred therapy, Narrative Therapy, Gestalt Therapy and Solutions focused therapy have all had a major influence on me.
But beyond...
Jane Devilliers
I read widely and have an eclectic approach, however most of all Jung, then Albert Ellis, John Bowlby, Erik Erikson.
Kate Culy
Perhaps the most significant is Narrative Therapy which I spent a year studying. I love this quote “The person is not the problem, the problem is the problem†by Michael White. This is so...
Loretta Bell
I am probably most influenced by a humanistic way of thinking, but in relationships, I love the concept of differentiation. In short, I believe that children are perfect adapters to their childhood...
Tracy Clark
The philosophical approach to my professional development is to form a strong connection to my client leading to wellness, growth and resilience . My personnel development and growth continue through...
Matt Dale
My philosophical approach to psychology has been influenced by a real-world, everyday approach. Having worked both in private practice and in the corporate sector, I believe in applying psychology...
Marie Carmody
I have been heavily influenced by Jungian depth psychology and typology for more than 20 years.
Donna Neck
I really believe in working collaboratively with clients in assisting them to activate their strengths and abilities. Sometimes life stressors can affect people's confidence and self esteem whereby...
Gregg Palmer
My theoretical basis is steeped in psychoanalytic, intersubjectivity and developmental theory, and my interest as a counsellor and psychotherapist has always been stimulated by ideas of consciousness,...
Connie Reed
Attachment theory, Interpersonal Neurobiology, Systems Theory
Michelle McClintock
Acceptance and Commitment therapy - the mindfulness, compassion, practicality and wide applicability make it my go-to therapy approach, (plus the generosity of the ACT community)
Process-oriented...
Sigrid O'Callaghan
Existential philosophy and writers such as Albert Camus, Sartre and Simone Beauvoir.
Carl Rogers Client Centred Counselling
Gestalt Therapy
Self Psychology: Heinz Kohut
Object Relation Theory:...
Sarah Harwood
Person centred Counselling, and Child Centred Play Therapy. Trusting the therapeutic process, and empowering people in their own journey of growth.
Natajsa Wagner
My belief is that all of our challenges are relational in nature. Whether it is the relationship we have with ourselves, others or a lack of relationship. By developing self-awareness and...
Niki Gelekis
My therapy approach has been deeply influenced by interpersonal neurobiology and also polyvagal theory which is the science of safety. Attachment theory also informs all of my relational therapy...
Louise Jansz
So many, and always more emerging!! My main influences have been Jung and Steiner as first generation thinkers, leading on to Arny and Amy Mindell's process oriented approach, Ken Wilber's linking to...
Neha Kapoor
My professional and personal development has been greatly influenced by three philosophical approaches: Gottman Therapy for couples and Psychodynamic and Person-Centred therapy for individuals. These...
Brenda Rowlandson
Any philosophy which examines how we, as human beings, are relationally shaped. Our need for proximity and closeness as a strong evolutionary instinct toward survival. Also the philosophy and practice...
Kim Bailey
Systemic, humanistic, experiential and developmental (attachment).
Rosie Burgess
I have a multimodal approach and am influenced by cognitive behavioural therapies, acceptance and commitment therapy, psychodynamic theories and choice therapy.
I find the work by Adler and Rogers...
Mark McMahon
As a practitioner I believe I take a Rogerian approach to therapy offering unconditional positive regard - validation - for a client's lived experience. I have an eclectic approach to my practice...
Carol Farnell
Psychoanalytical approach has strongly influenced my personal development while Jungian and experiential approach have strongly influenced my professional development. In recent years systemic family...
Katie Watson
Definitely client centred as we are the experts in our own lives and the relationship between the counsellor and client is paramount for effective therapy.
Also CBT as this is an approach I find...
Chris Chicoteau
Various theories including process oriented psychology, attachment theory and mindfulness.
Tim Clark
Professionally, my greatest influences are Ernesto Spinelli, Irvin Yalom, Carl Rogers, Karen Horney, Bessel Van Der Kolk, Jeffrey Young, Paul Gilbert, Dan Siegel, Nancy McWilliams, Pat Ogden, Stephen...
