Stress

There are many definitions of the phenomenon 'Stress'. It means very different things to different people and the methods of dealing with it vary. My first priority is to listen to each client and hear their specific story, how they experience 'stress', how exactly it affects them.

This exploration takes some time and I realise that the client also wants instant relief. They are troubled by disabling physical symptoms or thoughts that get in the way of performing well at work or that are starting to damage a relationship. Often a client describes this as 'being pulled in all directions' or 'feeling frozen, stuck and unable to move'. They are often people who have managed very successful lives, high achievers, who are used to 'having it all' and suddenly find that they can't do this any more.

While we are getting a good look at their situation, I will introduce techniques that are instantly helpful for relaxation, to facilitate a somatic change and help the body relax so that the mind can recuperate. In my understanding, feeling Stress as a painful feeling is actually a welcome wake-up call for people who need to reassess some aspects of their lives.

Most of my clients welcome my introducing them to Relaxation techniques in the safe setting of the therapy room. They realize that I will recommend only safe techniques.

I practise short Meditation techniques with them first- and they can make them part of their lives from then on if they chose. I continually explore this vast field myself and am very impressed by the work of Jon Kabat-Zinn and William Bloom (please also see list of people I work with)

If I am able to work with someone soon after they experience their first symptoms - breathlessness, high blood pressure, sweaty palms, feelings of nausea - a lot can be achieved quickly. Using integrative thinking, I offer a multi-faceted approach tailored to each individual, respectful of their pace and needs. This often means teaching Cognitive Behavioural Strategies - however in my experience I find that this (CBT) approach by itself is not optimal. To facilitate a greater understanding of this pervasive phenomenon I have introduced one-day Stress Management Seminars . My rooms in South Bank SE1 are conveniently close to Waterloo/Charing Cross and Blackfriars station.

For more information or to book an appointment contact Annegret on 0207 6 200 300 or via info@annegretodwyer.co.uk