Transference in Counselling: Understanding the Invisible Guest
Imagine walking into a therapy session and suddenly feeling angry, anxious, or overly attached to your therapist — even though they’ve done nothing to cause it.That emotional reaction might be transference in action. In my clinical work as a BACP-accredited psychotherapist specialising in trauma and EMDR, I see transference as one of the most revealing […]
Functional Freeze: Understanding and Easing the Hidden Trauma Response
What is a Functional Freeze? The term “functional freeze” describes a state in which someone appears outwardly capable and engaged but internally feels disconnected, numb, or overwhelmed. It’s a trauma response shaped by the nervous system’s need to protect the body in situations where escape or resistance is not possible. Unlike the classic “fight or […]
Understanding the 7 Stages of Process in Person-Centred Therapy
The 7 Stages of Process are a foundational concept in person-centred counselling, developed by psychologist Carl Rogers. They describe how individuals evolve from rigid, defensive states to more open, self-aware, and authentic ways of being. This model offers a compassionate lens through which therapists can understand and support a client’s journey toward personal growth. […]
Understanding the Window of Tolerance
Navigating life’s ups and downs can be difficult, especially when trauma or chronic stress impacts our ability to stay balanced. The Window of Tolerance is a simple yet powerful concept that helps us understand how we respond to stress and why we might sometimes feel “off” or overwhelmed. It’s particularly useful for those exploring trauma […]
Title: Understanding Bipolar Eyes: The Subtle Signs in the Window to the Mind
When we talk about “bipolar eyes”, we’re not referring to a formal clinical diagnosis, but rather the subtle shifts in expression and eye behaviour often noticed in individuals living with bipolar disorder. These changes can sometimes serve as non-verbal cues indicating whether someone is experiencing a manic or depressive episode. Eyes are often called the […]
Listening to Your Inner Voice: Understanding the Locus of Evaluation in Person-Centred Counselling
What is the Locus of Evaluation? In person-centred counselling, a core concept developed by Carl Rogers is the locus of evaluation. This idea refers to where an individual places the authority for valuing themselves, their experiences, and their choices. Simply put, it’s about whether we look inward or outward to judge our worth and make […]
Understanding the Fear of Long Words: Hippopotomonstrosesquipedaliophobia
The fear of long words, ironically known as hippopotomonstrosesquipedaliophobia, is a real but uncommon phobia that can cause anxiety and distress for those affected. While the name itself seems like a cruel joke, this condition is linked to broader anxiety disorders and can impact confidence, communication, and everyday life. What Is Hippopotomonstrosesquipedaliophobia? Hippopotomonstrosesquipedaliophobia is classified […]
Relationship Counselling
What is Relationship Counselling? Relationship counselling, also known as couples therapy or marriage counselling, is a form of therapy that aims to help couples resolve conflicts and improve their relationships. Benefits of relationship counselling Relationship counselling can offer numerous benefits for individuals and couples experiencing difficulties. Some of the key benefits include: Improved Communication Skills: […]
Understanding Polyvagal Theory
What is Polyvagal Theory? The Polyvagal Theory, developed by Dr Stephen Porges in the early 1990s, offers a comprehensive framework for understanding the autonomic nervous system (ANS) and its role in emotional regulation, social connection, and behavioural responses. The theory has significantly influenced fields like psychology, psychiatry, and neuroscience by shedding light on how our […]
The Person-Centred Approach to Counselling
What is the Person-Centred Approach? The person-centred approach to counselling, developed by the influential psychologist Carl Rogers in the 1940s and 1950s, revolutionised the field of psychotherapy by placing the client at the heart of the therapeutic process. This approach, also known as client-centred or Rogerian therapy, emphasises the importance of the therapeutic relationship and […]