I strive for my therapy style to be:
Relational- our relationship is foundational and prioritized.
Authentic - who are you, really? I want to know!
Strengths-based - we all have many, let's hone in on yours.
Trauma-informed - what has happened to you? How does this impact your life?
Existential/ purpose-seeking - what is life (I don't know, either!) but, how can we find meaning for you?
Compassion-focused - I have a fresh supply for you and let's replenish your own for yourself!
Narrative - story-telling and sharing is part of human nature.
There is an Icelandic word, Ratiljóst, which translates to “enough light to find your way by.” A metaphor shared with me long ago has stayed with me ever since: imagine a client and counsellor walking through a dark cave - the mind. The client leads, for they know this cave best, while the counsellor follows closely behind, holding a candle or flashlight, gently illuminating hidden corners, the places the client may not yet see. This, to me, is what counselling is: a journey together, with the hope of gathering just enough light to find your way by.