Humanistic integrative therapy just happens to be the therapy I specialise in providing, and it might be best described simply as being like a warm hug for your soul.
It's a type of therapy that blends the principles of humanistic psychology with a mix of other therapeutic approaches, all tailored to meet your unique needs. Imagine it as a custom-built path to help you understand yourself better and navigate through life's ups and downs.
The heart of humanistic integrative therapy is all about seeing you as a whole person, not just a set of symptoms or problems to fix. It's about embracing your potential and fostering personal growth. This approach believes that you already have the inner resources and strengths to overcome your challenges, even if it doesn't always feel that way. The therapist's job is to help you tap into those resources and guide you on your journey to self-discovery and healing.
Humanistic psychology, which forms the foundation of this therapy, is centred on concepts like self-actualisation, personal growth and the inherent goodness of people. It’s optimistic and empowering, focusing on your ability to create a fulfilling life. Think of it as shining a light on your positive traits and potential, rather than just focusing on what might be going wrong.
Now, let’s talk about the “integrative” part. This simply means that the therapist uses a blend of techniques from different therapeutic models. They might draw from Person-Centred Theory (PCT), cognitive-behavioural therapy (CBT), psychodynamic therapy, Transactional Analysis (TA), Gestalt therapy, and more, depending on what fits best for you.
As a quick aside, my integrated theories are PCT, TA and Gestalt (perhaps I’ll dive into those in a later blog!).
This mix-and-match approach ensures that the therapy is flexible and can adapt to your specific needs and circumstances. It's like having a personalised toolkit for your mental and emotional wellbeing.
Click the image below to watch Chris explain Humanistic Integrative therapy in a nutshell!
In a humanistic integrative therapy session, you can expect a warm, empathetic, and non-judgmental environment. Your therapist is there to listen deeply and understand your experiences from your perspective. They’re not there to tell you what to do but to help you find your own path and solutions. This supportive relationship is a crucial part of the healing process.
One of the key techniques often used in this therapy is open-ended questioning. These questions encourage you to explore your thoughts and feelings more deeply. For example, instead of asking, "Are you feeling sad?" a therapist might ask, "What emotions are you experiencing right now?" This subtle shift can open up a broader and more meaningful conversation, helping you to get in touch with your inner world.
Another aspect of humanistic integrative therapy is the focus on the here and now. While it can be helpful to explore past experiences, the emphasis is usually on how these experiences are affecting you in the present moment. This present-focused approach can help you become more aware of your thoughts, feelings, and behaviours as they happen, giving you greater insight and control over your reactions and choices.
Creativity and self-expression are often encouraged in humanistic integrative therapy. This might involve activities like art, music, or writing, which can be powerful tools for uncovering and processing emotions. By engaging in creative expression, you might discover new aspects of yourself and find innovative ways to cope with challenges.
Overall, humanistic integrative therapy is about embracing your humanity and uniqueness. It’s a journey of self-discovery, growth, and healing, where you’re seen, heard, and valued just as you are. Whether you're dealing with anxiety, depression, relationship issues or simply looking to understand yourself better, this approach can offer a compassionate and holistic path to a healthier and more fulfilling life.