Sally Brooker
Psychodynamic Therapy
& Counselling
Sally Brooker
BSc (Hons) PGDip MBACP
Psychodynamic Therapist
& Counsellor
What I offer
Finding a therapist who you trust and feel comfortable with, to start exploring what has brought you to seek therapy, can be a difficult thing. It can also be a huge relief and the first step to development of further awareness and change.
I offer both brief (6-12 sessions) and long term therapy (open ended), providing a non judgemental space for you to talk and explore your thoughts and feelings. These might concern a specific event or be more generally motivated by a lack of fulfilment, indecision, or struggle. We will work together with the mutual aim of gaining greater understanding and awareness. This might for example involve looking at your past experiences, current situation and relationships, and your relationship with me as your therapist.
My approach is psychodynamic in it's focus, although when needed, I also incorporate other forms of therapy, for example Cognitive Behavioural Therapy or more creative practices.
Psychodynamic Therapy
Psychodynamic therapy is a contemporary development of the original psychoanalytic approach as pioneered by Freud. In order to minimise our experience of pain we all develop ways of coping, some of which we remain aware of, but others we may not be aware of. These defence mechanisms are necessary but they can also become fixed preventing growth and connection. They come at a cost. I believe that the opportunity to challenge habitual behaviour patterns, re-examine beliefs, and explore buried feelings can allow for deep change to take place in ones life. I provide a safe and non-judgemental space working with my clients, where an authentic therapeutic relationship will be central to the development of our work.
Initially, I became interested in the psychological approaches involved in elite training and performance. I went on to complete a BSc (Hons) in Psychology at Cardiff University and qualify as a Counsellor and Psychodynamic Therapist, completing my training at the University of Brighton. I have worked within a variety of settings including the NHS, private healthcare, inpatient and outpatient settings, education, advocacy and arts charities.
I have experience working with people over a wide range of issues including:
Anxiety
Depression
Eating disorders
Trauma
Self Harm
Drug and alcohol dependancy
Physical illness
Relationship difficulties
Life transitions
Bereavement
Obsessive compulsive behaviours
Self esteem & confidence issues
I am a member of the British Association for Counsellors and Psychotherapists and abide by their code of ethics and practice. You can find me on their register by following the following link: http://www.bacpregister.org.uk/check_register/