Being Seen, Heard, and Working with Your Parts

I’ve worked with Cognitive Behavioural Therapy extensively and seen how helpful it can be, but I often felt something was missing: the space to feel truly seen and cared for, and the opportunity to be with feelings rather than having someone rush to fix them. What drew me to Gestalt therapy is its focus on presence — being fully with someone in the moment — and exploring what’s happening through curiosity and dialogue rather than interpretation. This approach helps people feel more authentic, more fully themselves, and gradually more able to care for and accept themselves.

Part of this work involves noticing and understanding the different “parts” of ourselves. We all have them — different thoughts, emotions, or impulses that show up in our lives. Each part has developed its own creative ways of protecting us and helping us cope, even if those strategies sometimes feel unhelpful. One part might keep us quiet when we feel anxious, another might push us to achieve or control situations. They are not “bad” or wrong — they’ve been doing their best to keep us safe.

In therapy, we work with these parts rather than trying to get rid of them. By listening to them with curiosity and respect, we can help them feel safe and supported. Over time, this allows you to integrate these parts more fully, feel more authentic, and treat yourself with genuine care. It’s a collaborative, gentle process that unfolds naturally through dialogue and presence, rather than through direction or instruction.

If this resonates with you, you’re welcome to reach out. I offer a space where your experience is valued, where curiosity guides our conversations, and where each part of you is honored.