Lauren is a Psychotherapist and joined the team in January this year. We’ve asked her about her approach and role within Orri.
How long have you been a clinician for and what were you doing before Orri?
I have been a clinician for 6 years and before Orri I was working in an inpatient eating disorder unit in South Africa.
Can you tell us about the type of therapy/discipline that you practice?
I use a range of methods when working with clients. My therapeutic skills are firstly grounded in sound social work principles and I combine these with a strong interest in Psychodynamic Psychotherapy. My aim is to provide a supportive and non-judgemental space for clients to share their current difficulties and to find their inner strength. I also integrate Transactional Analysis in my work with clients, which looks at how we interact with others.
What do you enjoy most about your role?
I enjoy walking alongside my clients on their journey, being able to support them through the difficult terrain of recovery! My favourite thing to see on this journey is when my clients start to receive the gifts of recovery and start realising that there is so much more to life for them! It is the reason that I come to work every morning!
What is the most challenging aspect of your role?
Because I really believe in recovery and that my clients can have improved mental health and wellbeing, it is sometimes quite challenging when clients are unable to see this for themselves and decide to terminate treatment prematurely. I think sometimes our clients do not realise how much it means to us as clinicians to be alongside them on their journey and how we share their pain when treatment ends in this way. It is challenging to let go, but I also know that to really embrace support it needs to come from ourselves first.
What do you wish people knew about therapy/psychology?
You never had to do it alone. Therapy allows for an amazing frame in which you get to show some of those not so nice parts and to receive unconditional support and care. Having a therapist as a soundboard can really equip you to face your challenges and to reduce some of the struggles you may have that are hindering your life and where you wish to be.
What do you feel is most unique about Orri?
I think what makes Orri so special is how integrated the team is as a whole (every member knows each client and their story) which means that clients are not just a number or a face, but rather seen as really important individuals that also have an important role in their own recovery. I do feel that we also try to listen to each person’s individual needs and tailor a programme which meets these.
Outside of work, what do you do for your own mental wellbeing?
I love mindful walks in the park, drinking delicious coffee from the beautiful and trendy café’s here in London. It is also important for me to keep connected to friends and family- I can not forget the importance of self-care days! Which really are my favourite days in the week.
What is your favourite inspirational quote?
First and foremost my clients, as I would not be doing the work I love without them- but a good second best is the amazing Brene Brown! Her work on shame and vulnerability is so important and inspirational and she just reminds us to all get in the arena which is life and to fight for what we deserve.
Do you have a mental health hero?
My clients – who engage in incredibly challenging reflective work and inspire me in their bravery and courage.
If you had one piece of advice for a therapy-seeker, what would it be?
I wear a ring everyday which says, ‘but still I rise.’ This is an important affirmation for me and for my clients because we all go through different seasons in our lives, but what comes down, must come up, and with the right support and holding, we will continue to rise. So, if you are feeling that you need support, remember no man is an island, and there is no harm in taking a risk and seeing if therapy and the support it offers can helps you rise above any difficulties that you may be facing. Don’t miss the chance for a miracle to happen…
