Clare O'Brien
Integrative Therapy
About Me
.png)
I am a fully qualified Integrative Counsellor. My training includes three years of Humanistic and Integrative Counselling theory, skills and practice. In addition to the counselling training I have completed a diploma in Gestalt Psychotherapy skills and theory. I am a registered member of the British Association for Counselling and Psychotherapy (BACP). I adhere to the BACPs Ethical Framework and regularly consult with a clinical supervisor. I see my own therapist as and when needed. I am always updating my knowledge and skills with continued professional development courses. All of the above contributes to ensuring I work safely and effectively with my clients.
Qualifications
-
Advanced Diploma in Integrative Counselling
Iron Mill College (2yrs)
-
Level 6 Diploma in Gestalt Psychotherapy
The Gestalt Centre/London Metropolitan University (1yr)
-
Level 3/4 Certificate in Humanistic Counselling Skills (1yr)
The Gestalt Centre
Continued Professional Development
Just a few examples of CPD
-
Understanding Autism - a level 2 certificate
-
Applying Attachment Theory in clinical practice
-
Breathwork for Anxiety and Trauma recovery
-
Anxiety: Neuroscience, Attachment and The Body
-
Experiencing Change: An Existentential Perspective - Ernesto Spinelli
-
Understanding and working with adults with ADHD and/or Autism spectrum traits in Psychotherapy
My Approach
I offer a compassionate and confidential space for you to explore any difficulty you may be experiencing. We can work together to make sense of your situation and feelings. I will listen, gently challenge your beliefs and encourage fresh perspectives. This approach builds on the momentum that brought you to therapy in the first place. I will work with you to help you feel understood and more at ease in your life.
I believe that past events do impact us in the present but we don't need to go digging around looking for them as such. If something is impacting you it will show up in your day to day life in your relationships, memories, thoughts and general wellbeing. We will focus on these present day occurrences. We will work to bring greater awareness to your emotions, befriending them and finding out what is important to you and what you need to move forward.
As an Integrative therapist I draw from different therapies to create a dynamic, holistic approach which works well for people experiencing a variety of difficulties. How I am with my clients is influenced by Gestalt Therapy. I understand my client's difficulties through a psychodynamic theoretical lens as well as my understanding of neurodevelopmental differences. My practice is a talking therapy at times incorporating psychological education or Gestalt creative interventions into our work together.
I have worked with adults who have experienced a wide range of concerns and issues such as:
-
Anxiety
-
Depression
-
Low self worth and self esteem
-
Loss and bereavement
-
Relationship issues
-
Trauma
-
Stress
-
Workplace problems
-
Life changes
-
Family issues
-
ADHD
How it works
First Step
Contact me using the below form to book a free initial consultation.
The initial consultation is an opportunity to meet each other and discuss how we can work together.
Following the brief consultation you can decide whether you would like to book a first session.
Next step
During the first session we will focus on what brought you to therapy and I will ask questions to build a picture of your situation and assess your needs and goals for therapy.
If it turns out that you need a different therapy or therapist with a different skill-set I would be happy to make a suitable referral.
How Long
By the end of the first session we can decide whether to commit to an initial six sessions. Following these we will review what worked and any further work needed.
Therapy can be short term if you have a specific issue you would like to focus on. Long term therapy is suitable for more complex issues and for those who have been impacted by negative childhood experiences.
Fee
The fee is £50 per 50 minute session
Get in touch
Send me a message with the below contact form if you would like to arrange a free brief consultation.
My Working Hours
Online Tuesday-Thursday
8am - 8pm
Axminster in-person on Tuesdays
9am - 3pm
Exeter in-person on Thursday
8am – 8 pm