Karl Borthwick LightStream Psychotherapy (BABCP Accredited CBT&EMDR)
About me
I utilise Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) as my primary psychotherapeutic treatment approach. CBT is based on the theory that our thoughts (cognitions), behaviours and physiology interact to influence our emotions and wellbeing; CBT seeks to explore this relationship collaboratively between client and clinician. I also utilise EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization Reprocessing) to treat various disorders including PTSD, panic, Long term health conditions, trauma and other distressing lived experiences. I view the therapeutic alliance between therapist and client as vital in recovery and see my clients as co-therapist, as we work together to gain a shared understanding of your presenting difficulties.
I will aim to help you develop your own skills and own tool box of strategies so that you are able to continue to manage and maintain a healthy wellbeing after our sessions come to an end. CBT is generally present focused however we may also look into our early experiences which may have helped shape and mode who we are today. The treatment process for one episode of treatment can usually consist of between 6-20 sessions, after which clients can consolidate and utilise the tools and strategies taught in managing their wellbeing independently moving forward.
CBT is now a well-established method which is evidenced based in assessing and treating a number of psychological problems. It is recommended by the National Institute of Health and Clinical Excellence (NICE) as being one of the most effective treatments for emotional and psychological problems, where anxiety or depression is the main component. CBT is utilised and the chosen method for treatment within most NHS primary care settings.
I am able to treat all of the below mentioned presenting difficulties within my therapeutic practice in the town of Ivybridge, Plymouth and Online. Within my practice I tend to utilise and incorporate a Self-Compassion and ACT (Acceptance and commitment therapy) focused approach. I have a great deal of experience in treating Obsessive Compulsive Disorder (OCD) and Low Self-Esteem and am currently utilising my CBT and EMDR (eye movement desensitisation reprocessing) skills in my primary mental health role within the NHS.
Alongside my CBT approach to my work I incorporate a person centred approach and include aspects of Mindfulness and Compassion Focused Therapy (CFT). At all times I seek to offer a professional, confidential and friendly service to my patients and exercise my skills and knowledge in line with the NHS and BABCP professional conduct code.
Training, qualifications & experience
I am a qualified NHS Cognitive Behavioural Therapist with a Post Graduate Diploma in High intensity CBT for both adults and children/young people (Postgraduate Diploma CBT for Anxiety and Depression (IAPT). I am an EMDR Therapist and have been trained under Dorset Healthcare NHS Trust. I am an accredited member of the British Association of Behavioural and Cognitive Psychotherapists (BABCP) which is the professional body for the practice of CBT.
I previously studied my undergraduate degree in Psychology with London Southbank University. I have been working with people with moderate, severe and enduring mental health difficulties in a variety of settings over the past 10 years. I have worked in both inpatient and outpatient settings. I have previously worked within a CAMHS setting where I provided CBT interventions both for children and young people. I am currently employed part-time as a Psychological Therapist for my primary NHS service in Dorset.
Member organisations
Registered / Accredited
Being registered/accredited with a professional body means an individual must have achieved a substantial level of training and experience approved by their member organisation.
British Association for Behavioural and Cognitive Psychotherapies
The BABCP is the lead organisation for Cognitive Behavioural Therapy in the UK.
Membership is open to anyone with an interest in the practice, theory or development of CBT. BABCP also provides accreditation for CBT therapists.
BABCP accredited members adhere to the Standards of Conduct, Performance and Ethics in the Practice of Behavioural and Cognitive Psychotherapies, and are willing to be scrutinised in this adherence as required.
Areas of counselling I deal with
Other areas of counselling I deal with
LGBTQ
PTSD
EMDR
Chronic Pain
LONG TERM HEALTH CONDITIONS
Therapies offered
Photos & videos
Fees
I offer a free 20 minute initial consultation session to anyone interested in beginning therapy with me, this is to enable us both to discuss some of the difficulties you might be experiencing and for us to ascertain if all parties feel comfortable about working together.
It may be the case that from this discussion it becomes apparent that a different treatment option would be more beneficial to you, in which case I will be able to provide advice to help and support you to access the appropriate treatment via appropriate sign posting. Following the first consultation appointment there is no obligation to book any further appointments.
For CBT I charge £60 per 50 minute session which includes all administration charges and costs. Fees are payable currently via bank transfer. For EMDR as a stand alone treatment I charge £80 per 1 1/2 hour session. Sessions can be cancelled without charge up to 24 hours before, otherwise a charge may be incurred.
Concessions offered for
Further information
Online digital work carried out via Zoom or telephone which are both platforms I utilise in the NHS
