Play is the natural language for a child. Therefore, working with children in psychotherapy integrates creative approaches such as play, drama or art to help a child to express his or her internal world. Play therapy, a client-centred and non-judgmental approach, uses play to communicate with and help children prevent or resolve psychosocial challenges, leading to better growth and development. Many children who undergo psychotherapy have experienced trauma. This is why I integrate Eye Movement Desensitisation and Reprocessing (EMDR) into play therapy techniques to help children reprocess their traumatic experiences and facilitate the healing process in their brain. By providing a safe space, I empower children to express themselves through play and facilitate their emotional growth and healing.
Many teenagers prefer talking therapy to understand their emotional world. Current research shows that movement, perception, body awareness, and emotional well-being are linked. Integrating EMDR, sensorimotor psychotherapy, and mindfulness in therapy promotes a holistic vision of the individual. It is also essential to understand the cognitive, emotional, symbolic, and physical aspects of the individual's behaviour in a psychosocial context. My flexible, warm, and empathic approach helps to create a safe and protected space to support teenagers with emotional behaviour difficulties such as anxiety, relationship issues, self-harm, eating disorders, body image, and trauma.
Working with parents and caregivers is an essential aspect of the therapeutic process, as they play a crucial role in their child's healing journey. By involving parents and caregivers directly in the therapeutic process, they can promote secure attachment behaviour and act as agents of therapeutic change. This approach helps to strengthen the relationship between parents/caregivers and their children, improve communication, and build self-esteem for both parties. It also teaches boundaries, increases listening skills, and alleviates emotional and behavioural problems. At PASST, I work collaboratively with parents and caregivers to create a safe and supportive environment, helping families to heal and grow together.
Supporting adults involves using evidence-based techniques such as psychodynamic psychotherapy, attachment informed EMDR and sensorimotor psychotherapy in talking therapy to address traumatic experiences that may impact a person's identity, relationships, and emotional and physical well-being. EMDR helps clients process negative emotions, beliefs, and sensations associated with traumatic memories, while sensorimotor psychotherapy helps clients develop internal resources to regulate their emotions and move towards higher-functioning modes. These therapeutic approaches offer relief from symptoms and help clients develop a new perspective on their experiences.
If you are interested in learning more about my therapeutic approach or would like to schedule a session, please feel free to contact me. I offer a free 15-minute initial phone consultation to help you determine if my approach is right for you. I look forward to hearing from you and supporting your therapeutic journey.
