Michael Aspden

Do you feel like past events are affecting how you cope with life? Does it seem that lack of self-confidence/other concerns hold you back? Are you trying to find peace of mind by managing anxiety/low mood/anger? Are you experiencing loss? Are you struggling with difficulties in a relationship? Would it be helpful to work on issues around identity or emotional intelligence? My aim is to make a positive difference to your life in these (and other) areas. Our work together will involve exploring how thoughts, emotions, behaviours and relationship dynamics can interact - and the possible influence of past experiences/relationships and core beliefs. My role is to work with you to identify possible helpful shifts in thinking, behaviour and communication - and to support you in the process of making changes.

I’ve a particular interest in working with mens’ issues. I see this as useful for male clients in terms of further understanding male psychology/behaviour - and helpful for other clients in understanding/managing gender-related differences (eg. in relationships). Historically, men may have found more difficulty in accessing therapy – they may have been raised with emotion suppressing dictum, such as 'boys don't cry'. Although this may initially help with building resilience, such defensive mechanisms can start to break down - the individual becoming overwhelmed and confused.

I've been working with a range of psychological issues for over 20 years. I see individuals for both brief and longer-term therapy. In both short and longer term work, techniques from a number of theoretical approaches such as psychodynamic and CBT may be used. I work collaboratively, adapting my approach to the needs and objectives of each person - and there will be an emphasis on your strengths and resources in dealing with real-life issues.

Appointments are presently by online video/'phone.