Healing Movements

At the beginning I will try to understand why you have reached out for support (patients often struggle to self-diagnose) and what goals you want to achieve through therapy. You can expect me to ask you a few questions regarding your current situation, as well as your past, including your experiences with psychologists or other forms of mental health treatment, if applicable. I will also explain what psychotherapy is and what our meetings will entail, once you decide to continue.

The therapy I provide focuses on cognitive-behavioural modality, where you commit to perform tasks given to you. Every consecutive step will be tailored based on your individual needs and requirements at the time. When it comes to addiction therapy or suspected mental disorders, I also propose an initial diagnosis on the grounds of DSM-5 and ICD-10. During the sessions I offer unconditional acceptance and select appropriate techniques, which will allow you to learn how to manage relapses and difficult emotions.

Sessions are held once or twice a week (the frequency depends on the client’s individual needs). Currently only online therapy is available.

Many of my clients were initially concerned whether their problem was ‘big’ enough to seek therapeutic help. Such people have often had erroneous stereotypes and other misconceptions instilled in them regarding reaching out for psychological help. For example:

• They assume that if they continue working and operate in a relatively normal manner, it means that things are not ‘that bad’.
• They suppose that if they do not experience significantly negative consequences of their behaviour (such as drinking alcohol or taking drugs) it means that they do not need support and can cope with it on their own.
• They are convinced that therapy is for the weak, or for those who cannot cope at all.
• They think that therapy is a solution for the ‘insane.’

However, I am going to go out on a limb and say that at some stage of their life every person may find themselves in a difficult situation when they will need an experienced specialist’s help. Almost everyone tends to have intrusive thoughts at some point or exhibit behaviours that are hard to explain and can be potentially inhibitory or make life more difficult.

We often think that we are alone with our problems without being aware that most people struggle with their own issues as well – they either hide it or refuse to recognise it. Therefore, if you’re considering reaching out to a professional, then yes, your problem is valid enough to seek such support.

You must know that as humans we have been biologically programmed to always feel safe. Stepping out of the comfort zone is inherently difficult. But in therapy YOU ARE IN FULL CONTROL, and I will never force you to step out of your comfort zone. I adjust the pace to make the client comfortable. Every decision is your choice. I provide unconditional support – even if you decide to stay in your safe comfort zone.

It is also worth acknowledging the fact that even though your brain does not like them, changes are the best way to lead a better life: just the way you want to. As a therapist I will support you at every stage of this process to minimise the occasional discomfiture. The brief awkwardness of starting therapy will bring lasting, positive changes to your life. Remember that standing still and doing nothing will leave you suffering.

Naturally – I am bound by professional confidentiality. However, there is one exception I will tell you about during the first visit. When your life is in danger (you decide to self-harm or attempt to commit suicide), it is my obligation to notify medical services to ensure that you would get the necessary help. Please, do bear in mind that your life and safety are my priority. It is the only situation when as a therapist I must break professional confidentiality.