Neuropsychotherapy
Neuropsychotherapy is an integrative approach to therapy and support that has a focus on neuroscientific research and considers a framework involving the interplay between the mind, body, social interaction, and the environment on a person’s well-being. By understanding the mechanisms of our brain and biology , the processes of our psychology, and the influences of social interaction, it is believed a holistic therapeutic practice can be formulated. My work as a psychologist utilises neurobiological, cognitive, emotional, social, and environmental information to base or enhance the psychotherapeutic interventions I use.
Up-regulation is the activation of a stress response. To set it in motion and to put us on alert. Down-regulation is the opposite. To calm us down. To ease our emotions, support the adrenalin and cortisol leaving our body, to calm our heart rate, blood pressure and breathing. And to re-introduce the blood flow to the thinking centre of the brain so we can reason and problem solve again (frontal cortex or smart brain).
Mind-Body Regulation
Mind-body regulation strategies to calm the brain stress systems and may include a number of different strategies including abdominal breathing, mindfulness techniques, distraction, guided imagery, guided meditation, self hypnosis, music - just to name a few.
Biofeedback and HeartMath® Technology
HeartMath technology is an innovative approach to improving emotional wellbeing by changing your heart rhythm pattern to create physiological coherence; a scientifically measurable state characterized by increased order and harmony in our mind, emotions and body.
Cognitive-Behavioural Therapy
CBT may involve various treatments including psycho-education, relaxation techniques, Mindfulness, assertiveness training, social skills training, cognitive restructuring, behaviour modification, and exposure techniques. The therapist and client work together to identify problematic thinking and behaviour patterns with the aim of empowering the individual with effective skills to change these patterns. Research clearly indicates that CBT is an effective treatment for many mental health problems including anxiety and depression. cognitive Behavioural Therapy in general has become an ‘umbrella’-term for a variety of interventions, which are used by many professionals (psychologists, life coaches, health nurses and many others).
CBT is based on a framework of understanding one’s own actions/reactions and thinking patterns, and therefore being able to influence, strengthen or change one’s behaviour, which consequently leads to more choice and control in one’s own life.
Mindfulness
Mindfulness is the psychological process of bringing one's attention to experiences occurring in the present moment, which can be developed through the practice of meditation and other training. Mindfulness is a practical and simple practice of being present, relaxation and self-awareness. Over time and with regular practice, many people find that mindfulness can assist them to experience less stress, anxiety and depression and greater degrees of self-acceptance. You still experience difficult thoughts and feelings, but you have a greater capacity to be with them, rather than be trapped by them.
Clinical studies have documented both physical and mental health benefits of mindfulness in different patient categories as well as in healthy adults and children. Programs based on Kabat-Zinn's and similar models have been widely adopted in schools, prisons, hospitals, veterans' centers, and other environments, and mindfulness programs have been applied for additional outcomes such as for healthy aging, weight management, athletic performance, for children with special needs, and as an intervention during the perinatal period.
Clinical and Self Hypnosis
Self-hypnosis allows your mind to achieve a deep state of relaxation. While in this hypnotic state, you either make suggestions or set intentions for yourself. Self-hypnosis is also an empowering way to improve control of your thoughts and emotions.