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My approach to counselling

Because so much of my work with clients is rooted in Trauma (including people struggle with addiction) a lot of my sessions follow this basic structure (called the Triphasic Model):

Phase 1 - Safety and Stabilisation

At this stage, emphasis is on:

  1. Ensuring emotional, psychological, relational and physical safety by addressing any high risk behaviours, plans, intentions, or intrusive thoughts.

  2. Building emotional regulation and distress tolerance skills (including the knowledge of, proficiency in, and  timing of skills).

  3. Establishing the relationship between the client and the counsellor (often called the therapeutic alliance).

Phase 2 - Memory and Processing/Mourning

During this phase, we get into the deeper issues that brought the client to therapy. What's happened in their lives that they want to explore, digest, understand or accept?

Stacked Black Stones
Stacked Stone Tower

Phase 3 - Integration, Reconnection and Rehabilitation.

This is where the therapeutic outcomes come to light. During this phase, the client is actively working towards their goals and is starting to see the benefits of treatment. It's usually at this phase where the client is building enough proficiency and self-awareness to begin preparing stop therapy. 

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