Therapeutic Approach

​​​​​Supportive, non-judgemental counselling and psychotherapy for relationship issues, work difficulties, cultural issues available online and in central London.

There are many different types of therapy available today and it can sometimes be confusing deciding which one is the right one for you.

My counselling training was integrative, which means that I gained knowledge and experience of using a range of different models. This included Humanistic models such as the person-centred model pioneered by Carl Rogers, Transactional Analysis and Gestalt. Although these models are quite different in many ways, what they all have in common is that they put the person at the heart of the therapy and they work together with the client. They do not generally see the client as a 'patient' or the therapist as the 'expert' but they are about empowering the client to find their own solutions. They also tend to work in the present moment and do not place much focus on past experiences. 

I also gained knowledge and experience in using Psychodynamic principles, these do take into account past experiences and how they may have shaped present difficulties. As well as this I have some training and awareness of Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) which is generally more solution-focussed and about changing certain, potentially unhelpful, ways of thinking. The BACP provides a useful summary of different types of therapy, which can be a useful starting point when trying to decide what may be right for you. This can be found here.

I believe change cannot happen if you do not feel comfortable and safe enough to bring whatever you need to the counselling sessions. The most important belief in my therapeutic approach, over and above which therapeutic model I use,  is the building of a good therapeutic relationship between us, which is based on respect and empathy.

 I provide a safe space for listening, reflection, understanding and growth.  I will work with you to help you understand your difficulties in greater depth, what caused them and, ultimately, to move beyond them towards living in a more fulfilling way.

Sometimes I may work in a more directive and practical way , if this feels relevant to your issues and safe.  At other times, it is more appropriate for me to take a more non-directive approach, providing a safe space for you to bring in whatever you need. I will always speak with you and work together with you towards providing the kind of therapy that will work best for you.

To find out more about how I work please e-mail semeyrasarwar.counselling@pm.me and I will be happy to answer any further questions you may have.​