There is a really important point to make here – our perception of events in the past may be what lies at the core of our problems. We aren’t always aware of what our perceptions are of the past – we think we do but our symptoms of unhappiness are telling a different story. Often it is a mixture of what we have perceived and what has actually happened that brings us to therapy. Sometimes people avoid therapy because they feel it is about blame and feel guilt – or feel it is self indulgent and they will appear like they have been 'hard done by'. Our aim, however, is geared to an understanding at a deeper level. A sense of loyalty or a feeling we shouldn’t ‘complain’ often keeps us from seeking help. If you repeatedly experience a debilitating symptom or pattern in your life, I would suggest you keep an open mind and mobilise an objective curiosity as to why this is - as opposed to feeling guilt in exploring why difficulties are being experienced.

An 'especial' note on the treatment for ocd and phobias

I offer a psychodynamic understanding in these areas as an alternative to clients who have decided that an exposure and response prevention programme isn't suited to them presently. It is also aimed at clients who have perhaps tried ERP and haven't felt it to be successful yet and wish to avoid taking medication.

Psychotherapeutic investigation may also appeal to those clients that wish to build confidence and esteem before undertaking ERP - and to those that wish to work on their ocd and phobic symptoms in a psychodynamic way alongside medication.

We are free to decide on 'safe experiments' in an 'exposure' type way if individuals are agreed and open to 'homework' but it isn't obligatory - and can happen organically without the need to set this an exercise per se.