Foundational Theories

ACT helps individuals accept difficult thoughts and feelings rather than trying to control or avoid them. It teaches mindfulness and acceptance techniques to help individuals live more fully in the present moment while taking actions aligned with their values and goals.

Attachment theory believes that individuals are born with an innate attachment system that is a motivator to seek closeness to a responsive caregiver in times of need or stress. An individual’s attachment system affects their relationship with themselves as well as relationships with others throughout their lifetime.

Behavioral therapy focuses on identifying and changing maladaptive behaviours, thoughts, and emotions. It is based on the principles of behaviourism, which emphasize observable behaviours and the idea that behaviours can be learned, unlearned, and modified through conditioning.

Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) helps people change unhelpful thoughts and behaviors. It focuses on how thoughts, feelings, and actions are interconnected, teaching practical strategies to challenge negative thought patterns and develop coping skills. By learning to recognize and change these patterns, individuals can feel better and manage challenges more effectively.

In EFT, clients are supported in enhancing their ability to identify, make sense of, transform, and flexibly manage their emotions. This process enables them to gain valuable insights into themselves and their relationships, empowering them to manage conflict in relationships and live more adaptively by utilizing this newfound emotional awareness.

Family systems theory is a way of understanding how families work together as a unit. It suggests that every member of a family influences and is influenced by everyone else in the family. The theory focuses on the patterns of communication, roles, and relationships within the family, and how these dynamics can impact individual behavior and the overall family functioning. It helps individuals to understand how we pass down patterns of communicating and regulating emotions through the generations as well as helping each member of the family unit to reach their full potential.

The humanistic approach emphasizes empathy, acceptance, and the belief that people have the ability to make positive changes in their lives. Clients explore their feelings, thoughts, and experiences to find their own solutions and personal growth in a safe and non-judgemental space.

Self-compassion therapy involves being aware of your own struggles and responding to them with warmth and acceptance, rather than harsh self-criticism. By practicing self-compassion, you can learn to soothe yourself during difficult times and cultivate a more compassionate and supportive relationship with yourself.

SFT focuses on finding solutions to problems through goal setting and exploring what's working well in your life to build on those strengths. By focusing on solutions and positive changes, this approach helps you to create a more hopeful and empowered outlook on your life.

Somatic therapy focuses on the connection between the mind and body to promote holistic healing. It recognizes that psychological issues can manifest physically in the body, and vice versa, that physical sensations and experiences can impact mental well-being. By bringing attention to bodily sensations and patterns, somatic therapy aims to release tension, process emotions, and promote overall well-being.