Ben Jones
There are many reasons we might seek out therapy but it’s usually when something isn’t working with how we are living. Perhaps there is suffering that’s never been expressed or acknowledged, or a vague sense of something being ‘off’, or we may be wondering about the headwind of life and want to unravel the forces and cultures which have shaped our sense of who we are.
Often, what I am contacted to explore includes unfulfilling relationships, a lack of meaning and direction in life, an absence of intimacy with others, difficulties with sex or sexuality; the death of loved ones, traumatic memories that feel stuck or immovable, questions surrounding ones identity, diagnosis or neurodiversity, or struggles with anxiety and depression. However, this list isn’t exhaustive and whatever is going on, my aim is to meet you in your uniqueness and help you explore what you feel moved to speak about, while also supporting what may want to be worked with more deeply.
My approach is rooted in the trust that we all do the best we can – the best that we know so far – put together from how we grew up and where we need to exist today in our lives. We all craft a solution to these experiences of past and present which although carrying great sense can often limit our attempts to change and grow. This might feel like issues within relationships that keep repeating, like old and stuck patterns, or a general sense of disconnection and a struggle to be in the world with others.
Therapy and particularly the therapeutic relationship is one in which something different can happen. We pay close attention together to what arises between us: whether in our thoughts, emotions, dreams, or in other channels, gently shifting and listening to the meanings within these. It is always collaborative, starting with the time and space to turn things over at a pace that feels right, but each therapy gathers its own creative, emotional sense so reconnection and healing can unfold.
The ways we gather understanding aren’t limited to only talking. Our bodies have an equal share in our experience and we can take a shared interest in them through movement, breath, attending to gestures and internal sensations, or even working outside. But equally we may not, and very often we will be sitting together. More important is the process of making deeper contact with where you are – to take the risk of being real – which can allow you to live more easily and creatively.
QUALIFICATIONS
PGDip in Humanistic Psychotherapeutic Counselling – University of Brighton
Advanced Diploma in Embodied-Relational Therapy (Body Psychotherapy) – ERT Association
Advanced Certificate in Body, Breath and Energy – with Nick Totton and Kate Ellis
Diploma in Existential-Analytic Psychotherapy – SAFPAC (Ongoing)
Certified Brainspotting Phase 1 & 2 (Trauma Therapy) – BSP UK
Level 2 & 3 in Counselling Skills / Studies – Counselling and Psychotherapy Training Academy
I have also engaged in further experiential groups to develop my practice: exploring community and psychotherapy for a year at the Philadelphia Association and authentic movement (and it’s relation to the brahmaviharas) at the Karuna Institute. Fundamentally my interest is located in two things: how we find our voice in the world with others and how we inhabit and express our bodies together. The ongoing relationship here, its joys and challenges and its significance for how we live our lives sits at the core of my practice.
Online and/or telephone appointments are available.
