therapeutic approaches...

whole person healing.

Below are the core therapeutic approaches I use in my practice; each selected for its evidence base, relevance to trauma and relational complexity, and alignment with my client-centred philosophy.

1. EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitisation & Reprocessing)

I use EMDR to support the processing of distressing memories in a safe and paced way, particularly when past experiences continue to affect the present.

More information: EMDR Association of Australia (EMDRAA)

Also the EMDR Institute for international context. 

2. Schema Therapy

Schema Therapy explores deeply rooted emotional patterns, or ‘schemas,’ that often develop early in lifeand can continue to shape present-day experiences. It’s especially suited to complex presentations and longstanding relational/identity difficulties.

More information:International Society of Schema Therapy (ISST)

3. DBT (Dialectical Behaviour Therapy)

DBT is a skills-based approach focused on helping regulate intense emotions, tolerate distress, improve interpersonal effectiveness, and build a life worth living. Useful for high-emotionality, impulsivity, self-harm risk and relational volatility.

Tools: Dialectical Behaviour Therapy Tools

More information: Linehan Institute

4. MBT (Mentalization-Based Treatment)

MBT emphasizes enhancing your capacity to understand your own mind and the minds of others; how feelings, thoughts and behaviours emerge within relationships. It’s especially helpful for attachment-related issues, identity confusion and relational difficulties.

More information: Anna Freud Centre

5. Polyvagal-Informed Approaches

I draw selectively on polyvagal-informed ideas to explore experiences of safety, threat, connection and regulation alongside other established psychological approaches.

More information: Polyvagal Institute – What is Polyvagal Theory?

And here: Deb Dana Rhythm of Regulation

Why I Integrate These Approaches

  • Depth + flexibility: The combination of body-nervous system (Polyvagal), cognitive-emotional (Schema), skills-based (DBT/MBT) and trauma-processing (EMDR) offers a full spectrum of support.

  • Trauma-informed: Each method honours how trauma and early relational experiences shape our nervous system, sense of self and relationships.

  • Tailored for complexity: These are not first-line “one size fits all” therapies, but are well suited when people are dealing with layered, longstanding, or attachment difficulties.

  • Recovery-oriented: Rather than simply symptom-reduction, the goal is deeper change: nervous system flexibility, secure self-identity, effective relationships, and meaningful living.

A person holding tangled red yarn, with some strands wrapped around their fingers, wearing a red garment, set against a neutral background.