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About

Denise Patten

 

 

I'm just like any other human. I have encountered challenges experiencing fear, joy and excitement as well as numbness and disconnection from my environment. I had spent years in roles focused on serving the needs of others, which were mostly fulfilling yet left me feeling inauthentic. Following personal counselling I became inspired to learn more about the phenomenon that could help those who had lost their way in the world to realise their potential.

What followed was six years of academic study and personal development that was akin to a roller-coaster ride, traversing through light and darkness, experiencing differing highs and lows. This has afforded me insight into the need to be vulnerable in order to achieve a secure connection with our self and others. Humans cannot survive alone which means we must learn to live in harmony with each other. This creates a paradox where we are torn between pleasing others and meeting our own needs; a reflection of my own journey. I believe connection and collaboration is the key to navigating being human and am grateful to have found my path. Relationships established with my therapeutic clients have been mutually educational and empowering. Additionally, my years in a voluntary role on a mental health helpline has been invaluable in offering an insight into emotional trauma and various diagnosed mental health conditions.

I am a registered member of the British Association for Counselling and Psychotherapy (BACP). Being a member is achieved when a minimum standard of training has been undertaken and involves the member agreeing to adhere to a code of ethics which ensures their clients are safe from harm or malpractice. I am also fully insured and registered with the Information Commissioner's Office demonstrating my commitment to keeping my clients' details secure.

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Experience

Qualified Integrative Psychotherapist

I am qualified to Postgraduate Diploma level as an integrative psychotherapist and also completed a BAHons Degree in Counselling and Psychotherapy which gave me a wide knowledge of the field before deciding which areas I felt compelled to work within. My training allows me to draw upon different theoretical orientations which may be suited to an individual's needs and preference. The core of my practice is Humanistic meaning I am focused on the whole of a person, respecting the uniqueness of each individual, with Psychodynamic theories utilised to help a person understand themselves on a deeper level. My training incorporated Petruska Clarkson's five therapeutic relationships (working alliance, transferential/countertransferential, the reparative, person to person and transpersonal) which focuses on building a strong therapeutic relationship that is evidenced to be at the core of effective therapy. Additionally, I am trauma informed meaning I focus on safety, trustworthiness and collaboration to empower my clients.

Qualifications

PG Diploma in integrative psychotherapy

BA Hons in counselling and psychotherapy

Complex Trauma Certification Training Level 1 & 2 (CCTP/CCTP-II) Course with Janina Fisher

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