The Resolute Approach
“we cannot change, we cannot move away from what we are, until we thoroughly accept what we are. Then change seems to come about almost unnoticed.” ― Carl Rogers
Beyond Symptom Management
Cognitive-behavioural therapy and related approaches are powerful tools. They can help you manage anxiety, shift unhelpful thought patterns, and build healthier habits. I use these methods regularly, and they work.
But they often leave a question unanswered: Now what?
Reducing symptoms is important, but it's not the same as living well. My practice combines clinical psychology with classical philosophy to address a more fundamental question: How do I live a better life?
Not a "good" life measured against others. A better life—better than yesterday, more aligned with your own values and potential.
The Philosophical Foundation
Modern psychology owes more to ancient philosophy than most people realize. Albert Ellis developed Rational Emotive Behaviour Therapy largely from Stoic principles. The Stoics taught that virtue—acting with wisdom, courage, justice, and moderation—is the foundation of a well-lived life.
This isn't abstract philosophy. It's practical. When we develop these qualities, we build resilience that protects us before adversity strikes, not just after.
Marcus Aurelius put it simply: "Just that you do the right thing. The rest doesn't matter."
What We'll Work On
Resilience isn't passive. It's built through practice before challenges arrive.
Our work together will focus on three areas:
Perception & Meaning — How you interpret events shapes how you experience them. We'll examine the stories you tell yourself and learn to respond rather than react.
Connection & Support — Wellbeing depends on meaningful relationships and a sense of belonging. We'll explore how to strengthen your social foundation.
Purpose & Action — Clarity about what matters to you creates motivation that sustains itself. We'll work on identifying your values and aligning your daily life with them.
The Toolbox
I draw from multiple therapeutic traditions depending on what serves you best:
Psychological Approaches:
Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT)
Rational Emotive Behaviour Therapy (REBT)
Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT)
Schema-Focused Therapy
Psychodynamic approaches, including Jungian and Adlerian perspectives
Positive Psychology and growth mindset work
Philosophical Frameworks:
Stoicism and its focus on virtue, acceptance, and rational self-examination
Existentialism and questions of authenticity and meaning
Mind and Body
Mental resilience can't be separated from physical health
I'm happy to incorporate guidance on sleep, nutrition, exercise, and recovery into our work if that's relevant to your goals. This isn't a separate add-on; the connection between physical and mental wellbeing is fundamental.