Matt Davis
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This professional is available for new clients.
This professional is available for new clients.
About me
There as many reason that people come to therapy as there are people.
Some of these reasons can be thought of in similar terms or categories, but the details are always particular and personal.
Psychotherapy offers a safe and secure space in which the person is supported to speak about the issues they wish to bring. These may be, for example, issues around relationships, or problems with anxiety, depression or trauma. Or perhaps a desire to explore expectations or patterns of behaviour.
A psychoanalytic approach means a broader perspective is taken where the details of life experiences and childhood are discussed and thought about, without resorting to simple explanations or pathologies - attempting to understand how the defining and structural aspects of our lives relate to each other, as well as how they exist within the wider social context.
The developmental and supportive nature of the therapy aims to facilitate an understanding of one's own unique circumstances and history, and how these relate to current or recurring issues.
To contextualise and gain perspective of the things that lead to distress and suffering can help to alleviate them; or help us find a way through the seemingly impossible situations we find ourselves in. The terms 'psychoanalytic' or 'psychotherapy' refer to the belief that certain issues can relate to our own previous experiences and can inhabit us with less clarity than we require. Giving form and understanding to these issues, in a safe and empathetic environment, one can begin to initiate change.
The sessions are usually weekly and last for 50 minutes. They are weekly because of the requirement to maintain continuity and develop the process of the sessions. Anything less frequent makes it more difficult to maintain these securely.
The duration of the course of therapy can be discussed at the outset or decided further down the line. Depending on the nature of the issues brought some people require only a few sessions, while others prefer something much longer term.
Training, qualifications & experience
I initially qualified as a Music Therapist - a psychodynamic form of psychotherapy - in 2006. This led to experience working in a variety of different settings, including the NHS, a children’s hospice as well as adult mental health groups and individual psychotherapy.
Over the last few years my practice has developed into a more psychoanalytic (Lacanian) approach that is more focussed on structure and relationship, in conjunction with the issues each person brings to the session.
I am working with adults on a 1-1 basis and provide a confidential and peaceful space in Central Bristol.
Member organisations
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.
The HCPC are an independent, UK-wide health regulator. They set standards of professional training, performance and conduct for 16 professions.
They keep a register of health professionals who meet their standards, and they take action if registered health professionals fall below those standards. They were created by a piece of legislation called the Health Professions Order 2001.
Registration means that a health professional meets national standards for their professional training, performance and conduct.
Areas of counselling I deal with
Therapies offered
Fees
£55.00 per session
Free initial telephone or online session
Concessions offered for
Additional information
My standard fee is £55, and costs can be discussed and negotiated in line with personal circumstances.
When I work
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Weekdays 9am to 5pm with some evening sessions available.
Further information
Located in Easton, Bristol, BS5 and also BS1.
