Hayley Marshall Counselling & Psychotherapy

Professional Approach

The main theoretical model underpinning my work is Transactional Analysis. This is a wide ranging and sophisticated psychological theory, with ideas on how we become who we are, how we relate to others and how we can make personal changes. It has a strong cognitive behavioral element i.e. how we think about and view ourselves and the world and how this affects our behavior. However, the theory also incorporates a relational depth theory, with a whole methodology enabling therapists to work to effect deeper emotional change within their clients.
I am also interested in other ideas in the therapeutic field. Specifically the person centred methodology of Carl Rogers ,the work of the existential therapists such as Irving Yalom, and Ernesto Spinelli, and the work of the relational psychoanalysts Stephen Mitchell and Lewis Aron.

I am currently developing the use of the outdoors in my therapeutic approach. I believe the use of nature and 'wild' settings can deepen a client's awareness and connection with themselves. This is turn can promote a powerful connection with others and the environment. (see PSYCHOTHERAPY IN THE OUTDOORS page for more details)

I am constantly refining my approach to psychotherapy and counselling through further training, regular monthly supervision and my own personal therapy. This keeps my work fresh and alive, and is a necessary element in working effectively and ethically with my clients.
This is consistent with my belief that therapy is essentially the 'art' of 'being with' people. i.e. the use of a relationship to affect 'change' in the client (although the therapist is often changed by the experience too!) Therapeutic work requires the therapist to be willing and able to sit with, and accept, a client's feelings, thoughts and experiences.

As I am experienced in working both long and short term, I am able to adapt my approach to suit my client's requirements.