Ms Amanda Rykaart, BA

When you are already overwhelmed, counselling should not feel like another thing you have to manage. My approach is structured, practical and trauma-informed. I focus initially on helping you feel more grounded and better able to cope. From there, we can explore what has happened, how it is affecting your thoughts, emotions, body and everyday functioning, and what you need in order to move forward. My work is grounded in a strength-based, person-centred approach, drawing on CBT, positive psychology, existential and solution-focused approaches. I also use BWRT where appropriate. Depending on your circumstances, our work may include: * understanding the effects of trauma and prolonged stress * managing overwhelming emotional or physiological responses * developing practical coping strategies * restoring a sense of safety, stability and agency * working through grief, loss and significant life changes * understanding patterns that may be keeping you stuck * identifying strengths, resources and sources of support * making sense of experiences that continue to affect you * finding practical ways to function while you recover I do not believe there is one correct response to trauma or grief, or one timetable for recovery. We work at a pace that is appropriate for you while keeping the work purposeful and grounded. In our first session, we will discuss what has brought you to counselling, what you are experiencing now and what you would like help with. It is also an opportunity for both of us to consider whether I am the right person to support you.