Peri O'Connor Therapy

Counselling and Psychotherapy in Horsforth and Online

How I work

I work using a relational model with an integrative approach using a range of different forms of therapy including Transactional Analysis (TA), creative ways of working, person centred, Gestalt and CBT (Cognitive Behavioural Therapy).

What does that mean in practice?

The relationship between you and me is really important. I will create a space where you feel safe to talk about anything that feels important for you and I will suggest whatever forms of therapy I think will best help you in the moment.

The difference between Psychotherapy and Counselling

Counselling is generally short-term and is focused on how you are in the present. It may be about a specific issue, or it may be about relief from particular symptoms, such as worry. Counselling typically deals with present issues that are easily resolved on the conscious level and I typically use questioning to help you find your answers. To relieve symptoms I might encourage you to practise some skills which can be useful in overcoming anxiety or depression. In other words, counselling is more concerned with practical or immediate issues and outcomes.

Psychotherapy is usually longer term, is an evolutionary process that helps a person look at long-standing attitudes, thoughts, and behaviours that have resulted in the current quality of one’s life and relationships. We would typically explore the past, and understand your current difficulties in relation to your experiences as a child. The work is usually deeper, more intense, and the change you experience is more fundamental and long lasting. It goes much deeper to uncover root causes of problems, resulting in more dramatic changes in perspective regarding oneself, one’s life experience, and the world in general.  Ultimately, psychotherapy aims to empower the individual by freeing him/her from the grip of unconscious triggers or impulses through increased self-awareness


Qualifications

  • M.A. in Psychotherapy (distinction)
  • Postgraduate Diploma in Counselling and Psychotherapy (distinction)
  • Postgraduate Diploma in executive coaching and mentoring

My training has taught me that relationships are significant. This includes challenges you may be facing in your relationships as a parent, child, friend, at work or at home, but also how you and I might work together

Transactional Analysis

As a training Transactional Analysis (TA) therapist I can offer an additional approach to therapy. TA is an effective long-term, in-depth therapy, it is very versatile as it can be used in a wide range of areas. The atmosphere that supports transactional analysis is non-judgemental, secure and respectful, ensuring that a positive relationship is forged between us both in order to provide a model for subsequent relationships and communication that are developed outside of therapy. We would work collaboratively, together, identifying what has been less helpful in your communication and provide opportunities for you to change repetitive patterns that limit your potential. Sessions are designed to explore an individual's personality and how this has been shaped by experience, particularly those stemming from childhood. We might work on problem-solving behaviours, whilst helping you to develop day-to-day tools for finding constructive, creative solutions. Our ultimate goal is to ensure you regain absolute autonomy over your life.

Working Creatively

Sometimes it can be hard to access our feelings, if you are someone who likes to ‘do’ or ‘see’ as well as listen there are other ways I could help. I mainly work in the therapeutic way you would expect, sitting together, talking and listening, however if it was right for you we could also use other ways to help. Creative therapy uses methods such as writing, drawing, (in the loosest sense of the word) cards, natural objects such as shells and stones, and much more, to help you uncover feelings such as anxiety, sadness, hurt, fear, grief, anger and so on. Thinking with a different part of your brain can really help you when you feel stuck. It is of course your choice and we can work in the best way for you.

Get in touch

Please feel free to contact me if you have any questions about how I work, my qualifications or how psychotherapy and counselling works, or to arrange an initial assessment appointment. This enables us to discuss the reasons you are thinking of coming to counselling, whether it could be helpful for you and whether I am the right therapist to help.


You can also call me on 07484 635501 if you would prefer to leave a message or speak to me first. I am happy to discuss any queries or questions you may have prior to arranging an initial appointment.


All enquires are usually answered within 24 hours, and all contact is strictly confidential.

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