Psychological Services

Psychotherapy

SJ offers short-term and long-term psychotherapy for individuals (18+) experiencing a range of difficulties such as anxiety, depression, low self-esteem, interpersonal difficulties, and trauma.

Therapeutic Approach

While SJ has training and experience in several modalities, her main interest lies in psychodynamic psychotherapy. This is a type of therapy focused on illuminating the unconscious narratives that live inside of us, driving our thoughts, feelings, or actions. These stories have been interwoven into the fabrics of our being, impressed upon us by our past experiences – familial upbringing, cultural or societal messages about normative behaviours, trauma, or early attachments and relationships with others et cetera. We carry them into the present, unbeknown to us, inevitably repeating patterns of interacting with our environments that impede change or growth despite our efforts. By uncovering intrinsic beliefs and patterns that we hold, we gain precious knowledge that may anchor us through an emotional storm or bring about some relief when we can give voice or meaning to our struggles.

While words can express as close as possible to what we feel on the inside, our subjective experience cannot be packaged into a detailed cognitive report as its very nature is to be felt. Knowledge and insight are only one part of the journey. Emotions are the foundations of our inner life, yet it is often one of the tasks of the mind to avoid any uncomfortable feelings. We lose our curiosity for what shows up, turning our backs to what feels painful, ugly, and difficult without realising or appreciating their necessity. We stifle, block or try to control (by wanting to remove or “fix”) what is fundamental to living a truly fulfilling, authentic, and meaningful life. Emotions are then experienced as too much or nothing at all. It takes immense patience, courage, and tender listening of our emotions to finally be able to hear its wisdom.

The process of transformation begins with the reunification of the mind and heart to where they truly belong - alongside one another. We learn to give space to all our experiences, honouring without blaming what has made us who we are, and how we have come to be. In embracing the entirety of our emotional responses, we may begin to feel more connected within, slowly emerging with a renewed and strengthened sense of self.

This type of approach will suit those seeking to gain a better understanding of themselves through a deeper exploration of their inner world, experiences, and relationships with others.

Supervision