• anxiety and related disorders (including panic attacks and phobias)
  
• depression
  
• obsessive/compulsive problems
  
• eating disorders (anorexia/bulimia nervosa and obesity)
  
• social anxiety
  
• post-traumatic stress disorder
  
• work-related stress
  
• marital/relationship difficulties
  
• sexual problems
  
• bereavement
  
• psychological adjustment to medical diagnosis
  
• inappropriate anger
• low self-esteem
• non-assertiveness.
  

Psychotherapeutic Approaches

A range of treatments is available. Each of these may be used in the context of individual, couple or family therapy, as appropriate.

Cognitive Therapy/Cognitive Behavioural Therapy

Cognitive behaviour therapy (CBT) is based on the principle that our thoughts, feelings and behaviour are closely related. Negative patterns of thinking and behaving can lead us to experience negative emotions (e.g. anxiety and depression). Therapy aims to help people overcome emotional problems by helping them change the way they think and behave.

Therapy is relatively brief and usually takes place over 6-12 sessions. Research has shown it to be a highly effective treatment for a range of problems including many of those listed above.

Integrated Approach

Some people will feel that their difficulties are better dealt with through a more exploratory approach that acknowledges that symptoms occur in the wider context of their lives and past experience. Problems are viewed as normative human experiences that pose an opportunity for development and growth. Rather than drawing on one therapeutic approach, therapy integrates a range of different theoretical orientations according to the individual needs of the client, and usually takes place over
6 - 12 sessions.

Eye movement desensitisation and reprocessing (EMDR)

EMDR is a relatively new technique which is used in conjunction with cognitive behaviour therapy in the treatment of post-traumatic psychological problems. It allows the affected individual to change emotional and cognitive reactions to memories and reminders of the trauma in a helpful way.

EMDR, which is the subject of a lot of research, is a particularly brief therapy. Most interventions require 4 or less sessions, usually followed by 2 - 3 sessions of CBT.

Other Clinical Services

• clinical assessment for insurance and for legal reports
  
• stress management
  
• teaching appropriate psychological techniques to health professionals
  
• workshops and seminars for professional carers
  

Appointments

Clients are seen by appointment only.