PCD offers a reflective and explorative space to be listened to whilst experiencing the core conditions of empathy (to listen as if in your shoes), unconditional positive regard (to listen with respect) and non-judgment (to listen without judgment nor prejudice). PCD underpins all relationship-based therapeutic approaches.

PSDP was originally developed by Freud and his famous ‘couch’ approach. Modern-day psychodynamic therapy offers a warm, reflective and empathic space to consider how past experiences and relationships (both conscious and unconscious) can impact our present-day and the future we would like to go towards. Freud’s approach was the first talking-therapy approach from which all therapy was developed.

CBT combines the research of behaviourism and cognitivism. This approach is based on the importance of how our thoughts (cognitions) can influence how our behaviour (what we do), how our bodies respond and how we feel. This can lead to dysfunctional cycles of thinking and behaviour which influences our wellbeing and relationships. More recent ‘third wave’ approaches such as Acceptance Commitment Therapy (ACT) and Compassion Focused Therapy (CFT) combine traditional CBT with mindfulness and evolutionary aspects of what it means to be a human. CBT is the predominant approach used in the NHS.

EP is underpinned by the existential philosophy of the wonders and challenges of being human. EP places a central role in being our authentic selves, facing anxiety and understanding what our meaning and values are. EP sees human distress as an inevitable part of living and that by having the courage to face up to our difficulties, we can learn to lead a more authentic and meaningful life.