Compassion-Focused Helping for
Life’s Challenges
Confront suffering. Find your refuge. Live with ease and peace.
Life can be difficult
We are expected to thrive in a fast-paced, modern world with a "tricky" brain and nervous system we did not design. Evolutionary psychologists remind us that our deep-rooted motives to protect ourselves and others can often leave us baffled by our own thoughts and behaviors.
Internal Struggles
- Unpleasant physical & mental experiences
- Conflicting parts of ourselves
- Harsh self-criticism & judgment
- Feeling "not good enough"
- Existential fears and questions
External Pressures
- Challenges with change & transitions
- Relationship difficulties
- Environmental stress & burnout
- Refuge in unhelpful habits (drugs, work)
- Identity and status
Suffering is universal. Buddhist philosophy calls this "Dukkha".
However, there is a path to lightness and ease.
Psychotherapy & Coaching
Depending on where you are in your journey, we may work in different ways. Some clients need both, others focus on one.
Psychotherapy
Healing & Processing
Deeper therapeutic work focused on: understanding and healing past experiences, identifying internal conflicts, processing difficult emotions and working through mental health challenges
Often longer-term work. We explore the roots of suffering, process difficult experiences and develop healthier patterns.
Coaching
Growth & Potential
Future-oriented work focused on unlocking potential, setting meaningful goals, navigating transitions and building the life you want to live.
Often more structured and action-oriented. We identify what you want, remove obstacles and create pragmatic plans for progress, together.
Many clients benefit from both approaches. We'll discover what works for you together.
Forest Bathing Sessions
To bring you peace of mind and a sense of calm in a distracted world.
Check back soon for more details.
Client Feedback
Working with Dean gave me a safe, compassionate space to open up and work through some very hard things. I learned so much about myself, gained tools I still use today, and felt gently guided while building a stronger sense of self.
Dean is a deeply caring, supportive and intuitive counsellor. I felt from the start that he just 'got' me and I looked forward to our sessions every week. I always came away feeling lighter, clearer and more confident in my ability to make meaningful changes. The skills he helped me build still support and guide my choices and actions. I'm incredibly grateful to have found him.
During a period of worry and stress, I needed a non-judgemental person to help me. Dean provided an empathetic ear. He has a caring, professional approach and suggested various practical tools to assist me regain my life balance.
A Guide on the Mountain
I am not a guru. I am learning and growing just like you. I bring a life-long passion for developing wisdom and compassion, and a deep desire to help you grow yours.
"If I’m able to help you climb your mountain, it’s because I’m climbing my own mountain, just across a valley."
The Two Wings of a Bird
It’s impossible to thrive and flourish in life without both Wisdom and Compassion. My work helps you cultivate these qualities to confront suffering and live with more ease.
Wisdom
Understanding the true causes of suffering and how the "tricky" brain works. Harnessing skills to navigate life with courage.
Compassion
The motivation to be sensitive to suffering in yourself and others, and the deep commitment to alleviate and prevent it.
Client Outcomes
- Understand the causes of suffering
- Reduce shame and self-criticism
- Tolerate and regulate strong emotions
- Acquire practical tools (breath-work, imagery)
- Slow-down and be more mindful
- Develop a safe internal refuge
- Ultimately become your own therapist
How to Start
I offer a sliding scale of fees based on income to ensure therapy is accessible. Here is the initial path we take together.
Book a Free Call
A 30-minute confidential phone chat to see if we connect with no obligation.
Decide Format
Choose how you work: Indoors (Ware), Outdoors (River Lea), or Online.
Reflection
Take 24hrs. It's important you feel safe. Speak with other therapists if you need.
Initial Session
We sign a contract and begin the work of climbing your mountain together.