Integrative therapy

Introduction

As a Qualified Integrative Therapist my approach to treatment involves selecting the techniques I've trained in over the years, from different therapeutic orientations which best suit to a client. By tailoring the therapy to the individual, as an integrative therapist I hope to produce the most significant effects specific to my clients.

Transactional Analysis (TA)

I draw on Transactional Analysis (TA) as a core philosophy of my work in supporting people. TA is a form of of psychotherapy that examines a person's relationships and interactions. This includes the relationship within ourselves (e.g. self talk, self esteem, self image, self compassion, etc) and our relationship with others. The goal of transactional analysis as a therapeutic model, is to support an individual to gain and maintain autonomy, by strengthening their awareness in their 'Adult' state, which can include emotional awareness and regulation as individuals.

As we get into our 20's, 30's, 40's and 50's+, we do not realise we are able to change, this is simply not true! TA is a great way to identify self limiting patterns and sometimes self destructive patterns and to develop and to change, in a way that best suits you. In TA therapy an individual and the therapist will often establish a contract that outlines the desired outcome they wish to achieve in therapy. This may contribute to the person in therapy taking personal responsibility for events that take place during treatment. As therapy progresses, an individual will generally then become more able to rely on their Adult ego state (based on TA, the rational here and now part of ourselves, that can grow and develop within us) to identify and examine various thoughts, behaviors, and emotions, which might hinder the ability to thrive. There is a lot more to how TA can support the therapy interventions, but here I keep it brief.

Person Centered Approach

Along side transactional analysis is the Person Centered Approach. This is about providing an environment of non judging, congruence, honesty, empathy and respect with the people I support. When a positive relationship exists between the therapist and the person seeking treatment, this often provides a model for subsequent relationships developed outside of the therapy arena, its like the therapy relationship is an opportunity to try out a different way of being in this space, which in turn can lead to taking this into life outside the therapy room.

As someone who has also been a client in the past myself, I found that a combination of TA and a Person Centered approach, can be powerful. These interventions made alot of sense to me personally. Through this first hand experience of integrative therapy, supported by my qualifications, I am able to support others to make positive changes in their life, so for me it's like I practice what I preach!

The Importance of the Therapeutic Relationship

There is much research out there which says the most important aspect of successful therapy is the client and therapist relationship, after all relationships are a very important aspect of life. Also when we talk of relationships do not forget the most important relationship is with ourselves and that sometimes needs supporting and developing along side someone else which is where therapy can play its part.

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