Counselling Approaches & Therapeutic Modalities
Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) is a form of cognitive behavioural therapy that focuses on accepting thoughts, feelings and experiences rather than trying to control them. It is part of what is called the third wave of Cognitive Behavioural Therapy which integrates more acceptance and mindfulness interventions.
Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT)
Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT)
Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) is one of the most well-researched and evidence-based approaches in psychotherapy, with over 60 years of studies demonstrating its effectiveness. It is widely used to support people experiencing anxiety, depression, stress, trauma, and many other difficulties.
At its core, CBT is based on the understanding that our thoughts, emotions, body sensations, and behaviours are interconnected. By learning to recognise and shift unhelpful patterns of thought and behaviour, we can create meaningful changes in our emotional well-being.
Eye Movement Desensitisation and Reprocessing (EMDR) or Multichannel Eye Movement Integration (MEMI)
Eye Movement Desensitisation and Reprocessing (EMDR) therapy or Multichannel Eye Movement Integration (MEMI) involves guiding clients to focus on traumatic or distressing memories while using bilateral stimulation.
The therapy involves recalling the distressing memories alongside bilateral stimulation, such as eye movements, tapping and auditory stimulation. This technique helps the brain to process the memory and reduce the emotional distress associated with the memory.
Throughout therapy, clients report feelings increasingly better about their experiences and are less distressed by the memories.
Various types of bilateral stimulation are used during such therapy treatment – lateral eye movements, hand-tapping and audio stimulation are often used depending on the comfort of the client and therapist.
Emotion Focused Therapy (EFT)
Emotion-Focused Therapy (EFT) is a well-established, evidence-based approach that emphasises the central role of emotions in our wellbeing. EFT is built on the idea that emotions are not simply reactions to events, but powerful guides that carry important information about our needs and values. However, when emotions are overwhelming, confusing, or suppressed, they can lead to patterns of distress, conflict, or disconnection.
EFT is particularly effective for individuals seeking personal growth, for those coping with trauma or chronic stress, and for couples who want to deepen trust and connection. It provides a compassionate, experiential way to engage with emotions—helping clients move toward greater resilience, authenticity, and emotional balance.
Gottman Method (Couples Counselling)
Developed by Drs. John and Julie Schwartz Gottman, the Gottman Method is a scientifically backed approach to improving relationships. After decades of research, John Gottman identified patterns that determine whether a couple’s relationship will thrive or struggle.
His findings have transformed couples therapy, offering actionable insights for partners who want to build a healthier, more resilient relationship.
This model isn’t about quick fixes or sweeping personality changes. Instead, it is about deepening emotional connection and creating an environment where both partners feel heard, understood, and supported. It helps couples learn the skills they need to deepen their relationships on a daily basis.
Somatic Therapy
Somatic Therapy is a body-oriented approach to counselling that recognises the deep connection between the mind and body. It is based on the understanding that stress, trauma, and unresolved emotions are often stored not only in our thoughts, but also in our physical sensations, posture, and nervous system patterns.
Rather than focusing only on talking through experiences, somatic therapy gently brings awareness to what is happening in the body. This may include noticing breath, tension, movement, or subtle shifts in sensation. By slowing down and exploring these signals in a safe therapeutic space, clients can uncover how past experiences continue to live in the body and begin to release patterns that no longer serve them.
For example, a client who experiences anxiety may notice a tight chest, shallow breathing, or restlessness. Somatic therapy helps them gently work with these sensations, allowing the nervous system to settle and opening up space for more balance and ease.
Somatic therapy is particularly supportive for those navigating trauma, chronic stress, anxiety, depression, or chronic pain and illness. It provides a compassionate, experiential way to reconnect with the body, fostering integration, healing, and a renewed sense of vitality.
Unsure which counselling approach or modality is more suitable?
Reach us directly via Whatsapp or fill up the form here.