Therapeutic Approach
Briar represents a therapeutic approach that balances a focus on empirically validated methods, theory, and research, with the flexibility required to allow for the realities and inconsistencies of being human. Therapy is approached at Briar as a space to create the kind of relationship worth growing in - where the therapeutic relationship represents an opportunity for us to practice our most human and connective skills. Therapy is meant to be a place to explore vulnerability, honesty, flexibility, empathy, compassion, introspection, directness, clarity, and trust within an empowered, informed, and impassioned space. Non-judgement, empathy, genuineness, and curiosity are at the core of my approach.
My commitment is to provide therapy founded on these principals, to lead with honesty, and to remain unconditionally open to the collaborative nature of this process.
Modalities and Theoretical Orientation
I would consider my approach eclectic in that it is fluid and dependent on the needs of the individual/s, however some common threads and approaches I use in my work include:
Cognitive Theory (CT)/Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT)
Psychodynamic Therapy (PDT)/Existential Therapy
But what does any of this mean? Scroll down for details
Understanding the ideas of health, behaviour, and progress that are guiding the therapeutic approach are essential for gauging the suitability of your therapist for your needs.
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CT and CBT suggest that our emotions and behaviours can be well understood through the thoughts (cognitions)/beliefs that are associated with them. CT and CBT look at the cognitions and beliefs we use to understand ourselves and others, and how those thoughts and beliefs shape or maintain our perceptions, function as barriers, or change our behaviours. Thought patterns can be assessed, challenged, evolved, or changed in pursuit of therapeutic progress.
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PDT is an approach to psychotherapy that relates to understanding the origins of one's presenting concern.
PDT prioritizes the recognition, acknowledgment, and exploration of our personal histories in consideration of the factors consciously/unconsciously impacting current decision making and experiences. Some factors could include repressed emotions, unconscious patterns of thinking, traumas, and other previous difficulties that shaped perception, thought, belief, or behaviour.
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Existential Therapy identifies anxiety as both natural and unavoidable. The theory suggests that much of life's suffering or anxieties can be understood through the lens of the 'ultimate concerns' : Freedom, Death, Isolation, and Meaning.
Existential therapy encourages us to approach our free will (freedom) from the lens of responsibility. Here we may ask ourselves to recognize where "I can't ___" is more reflective of "I won't___" in a show of radical accountability and self-acceptance.