In the last 10 years, research has clarified when therapy works and it turns out that the particular approach of the therapist matters very little. It is not whether the therapist is psychodynamic, gestalt, person centred, or uses TA, NLP, CBT or any of the dozens of others that makes the difference, (except to the therapist).

Apparently most important is that you are ready to make a change. Therapy doesn't seem to work if you have been told to come by someone else or you are doing it to please someone else! I will encourage you to clarify what isn't right at the moment, how you want to change, the obstacles and your motivation.

Next of importance is that you feel comfortable with the therapist and so I offer a free initial meeting to establish whether we can work effectively together. Previous clients say that my acceptance and integrity has helped them feel comfortable with me.

Research also shows there are some important listening skills of which the most important is that the therapist doesn't talk when you need time to think!

Also its important that any therapist you choose is safe and properly trained! It helps if they are members of a reputable professional body such as the BACP (20,000 members) or UKCP (5000 members).