Counselling, Psychotherapy and CBT
Adlerian Counselling and Psychotherapy
I offer both short- and long-term counselling and psychotherapy, based on the psychology of Alfred Adler (1870-1937). Breaking with psychoanalysis, Adler developed a humanistic approach to psychotherapy, which embraces depth work (exploring unconscious processes and early experiences) and a practical understanding of wellbeing based on encouragement and belonging. Adlerian psychology is aligned with existential as well as spiritual perspectives, and stands on the following key principles:
Social Belonging
As we grapple with our limitations in the face of life’s challenges, our need to belong is rooted in human biology. Whilst disconnection from the people who matter can highlight our vulnerability and discourage us, orienting towards others and contributing to community can promote safety and self-worth.
We Create Meaning
Changes in our lives can redefine what matters most to us, showing there are no absolute truths. Therapy can foster our creativity to question old views and discover new significance, identity and fulfilment.
Purpose
Our emotional needs often stem from early experiences, and exploring these can foster greater self-acceptance and open the door to change. At the same time, present-day situations and attitudes can echo past pain, keeping old wounds open. By acknowledging the deepest needs and desires in our behaviours, we begin to chart a path forward.
Choice
However difficult our circumstances, we likely have a degree of choice from which we can start to make a change. Therapy can help us reflect on what really counts, and feel our inner strength to take the first step.
Holism
The whole is greater than the sum of its parts. By attuning to our intimate emotional experiences, we expand our capacity to relate to others. In relationship with others, we can foster community feeling. In community, we can deepen a sense of “home” and care for the world we inhabit.
Cognitive-Behavioural Therapy
Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) has developed over the last century into a range of evidence-based approaches tailored to specific concerns. It is widely recognised as a first-line treatment by organisations including the NHS, NICE, the APA, and the WHO. Typically time-limited, CBT may not be suited to every issue, but can support you in actively examining your thoughts and behaviours, and experimenting with new strategies in a structured, focused, and practical way. It may be especially helpful for:
Anxiety, Fear, Worry
Including generalised anxiety, panic, social anxiety, health anxiety, emetophobia, body dysmorphia, perfectionism
OCD
Persistent fears that significantly impact daily life, often linked to specific behaviours or rituals. Exposure and Response Prevention (ERP) is regarded as the gold standard treatment for OCD
Depression
Low mood and rumination impacting on motivation and on the ability to function in the day-to-day
Client Feedback
“Giacomo is an excellent therapist, he listened to all my concerns in a non-judgemental way. Although I did find some sessions challenging, I have enjoyed attending these sessions. I found the practical elements of CBT and ERP very helpful in the sessions. I have been able to utilise these techniques in my day to day life. I can’t thank you enough!”
“Giacomo’s therapeutic approach combines professional expertise with genuine warmth and care. He helped me understand my emotional patterns and relationships in new ways, while offering practical tools for personal growth. His ability to help me see connections between my past experiences and current patterns was truly invaluable. I’m deeply grateful for our work together and the positive impact it has had on my life.”
How My Process Works
Booking a Call
When thinking about starting therapy, it can be difficult to know what approach or how many sessions you may benefit from. A free 15-20 minute telephone call can give us a sense of whether we might be a good fit, and how therapy may help.
Booking an Initial Session
On a first session we can explore the issues you would like to work on and your expectations for therapy. By the end of this session, I will check with you if you would like to continue working with me, and when to review our work together.
Reviewing Ongoing Work
Whether our sessions are time-limited or open-ended , it is good to regularly review progress in therapy. I aim to work alongside you in deciding the duration of therapy, monitoring our process together and setting review dates collaboratively .
