Understanding the different theoretical orientations can be confusing, so here is a very brief summary of the approaches I use:

Integrative
This approach draws on the most useful parts of all the approaches described below. It is a flexible way of working, responding to the needs of different clients and the particular difficulties they may have.

Psychodynamic
This approach takes a look at the past history of the client and the way patterns have formed through early development and family relationships; how these patterns resurface in the present is also a focus.

Humanistic/Existential
This approach looks at the client’s current life; the values of the immediate experience, the emotional/felt experience and the profound or cosmic experience. A chance for the client to take responsibility and find acceptance for their life.

Cognitive
This approach looks at how the mind, specifically the way we think, effects our learning and emotional states.
It can be quite a strategic and structured way of working.