©2010 Relational Psychotherapy

E: david@relational-psychotherapy.co.uk

David Slattery

In private practice since 1988

Online therapy, supervision and training

The bar is being set pretty high in this poem! In a way I think Rumi describes a place of 'reflection-on', of not being too 'attached-to' and if we can cultivate this place in supervision, it can be hugely helpful in the consulting room, where there is often a lot of pressure to judge certain states as good or bad.

I use the word ‘supervision’ as it is in common usage, but I prefer the word ‘consultation’, what might be even better would be ‘collaboration’. As perhaps you will gather I am not much interested in seeing this process as one in which I offer you my expert opinion! Rather I see this as a collaborative, reflective exploration where we can consider the therapeutic relationship and how it is impacting on the client, on you, and also on me. Through such a process what is focussed on are the relationships involved, rather than the ‘object’ of attention becoming the client.

It has been my experience many times over (both as therapist and supervisor) that when difficulties occur in the therapeutic relationship, if the therapist attends to what is troubling them in that exchange, and can find some understanding or even resolution, then the impasse or stuckness can be melted and the work can continue, all the richer for ‘achieving’ the undoing of a ‘relational knot’.

I currently offer consultation to psychotherapists, counsellors and couples therapists in private practice (both individually and in groups) and also to people working in organisations and communities where help with group dynamics is needed. I have also started working with sporting coaches who want help to develop the relational side of their work.

Any work where we are allowing ourselves to be affected by people can be taxing, so I am also concerned to encourage an attitude that is acknowledging of this, and takes care of you.

I am on the UKCP approved supervisors list

Fees:

I charge €90 / £80 per 50 minute session.  My fee is flexible and can be discussed in the assessment session.


©2010 Relational Psychotherapy

The Guest House

“This being human is a guest house.

Every morning a new arrival.

A joy, a depression, a meanness,

some momentary awareness comes

as an unexpected visitor.

Welcome and entertain them all!

Even if they’re a crowd of sorrows,

who violently sweep your house,

empty of its furniture,

still, treat each guest honorably.

He may be clearing you out

for some new delight.

The dark thought, the shame, the malice,

meet them at the door laughing,

and invite them in.

Be grateful for whoever comes,

because each has been sent

as a guide from beyond.”

Rumi

couples therapy

psychotherapy

supervision