Gavin Lashley, MA

My approach draws on several therapeutic models, and I adapt how I work to each person's needs and preferences. I use two main therapeutic approaches — Internal Family Systems (IFS) and Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT). My couples work is guided by my training in Intimacy from the Inside Out (IFIO), which is the IFS approach to working with relationships. Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) CBT helps you to learn that you are not your thoughts, and brings awareness to how your thoughts, emotions, and behaviours influence each other. It invites us to examine and revise our thoughts and our behaviours, and teaches practical ways to make change. Internal Family Systems (IFS) IFS therapy complements this by assuming we are all made of multiple parts, each trying to serve us in their own way. From an IFS perspective, even our most difficult thoughts or behaviours are parts of us trying, in their own way, to protect us from pain or vulnerability. These protective roles can become rigid and extreme. Together, we would explore these parts of you, understand what they're protecting, and help them find new, less extreme ways to support you. While it can be interesting to learn about the different therapeutic approaches, research consistently shows that what matters most is the quality of the relationship between therapist and client. I explain more about my personal approach on my website, and if I sound like someone you think you could work and connect with, I'd love to hear from you.