Erica Patrick - Generalist Psychologist,
M.Psych (Counselling Psych.)
Erica Patrick is a registered psychologist with a master’s degree in counselling psychology.
Erica uses a holistic and integrative approach to therapy, including interpersonal therapy (IPT) Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), and Acceptance Commitment Therapy (ACT).
Erica is a caring empathic who uses a collaborative approach and makes sure that progress is consistent.
She helps her clients achieve better relationships with themselves and other important people in their life. Erica has a special interest in anxiety, depression, relationship issues, life transitions, self-esteem, stress and coping in the work place, adolescent, and exam preparation,
Erica is also an advocate of Mindfulness Based Cognitive Therapy (MBCT) which incorporates mindfulness/relaxation practices as well as restructuring the negative, self-sabotaging thoughts which control us. Acceptance Commitment Therapy (ACT) is also utilised in her psychological consultations which involves practicing being present in the moment especially with strong emotions one may feel.
Erica will specifically help you achieve better relationships with yourself and other important people in your life. This is possible through accepting yourself and letting go of the past. Specifically healing past insecure attachments, and childhood issues.
Erica specialises in anxiety, depression, relationship issues, life transitions, self -esteem, stress and coping in the workplace, adolescence and exam preparation.
Erica can also help with the symptoms with IBS and uses gut -directed hypnotherapy for this.
Brain-Gut relationship
The brain-gut axis refers to the flow of information between the brain (central nervous system) and the gastrointestinal tract. Gastrointestinal symptoms arise from information originating in the brain and/or the gut. Psychological factors such as stress, anxiety and depression have been shown to affect the gut. Similarly, abnormalities in gut function have been shown to effect mental health, with ill health and pain increasing feelings of anxiety and depression. Gut-directed hypnotherapy and cognitive behavioural therapy treatments aim to enhance brain-gut communication and improve the ability to switch off and relax.
Gut-directed hypnotherapy
Gut-directed hypnotherapy is a type of hypnotherapy specifically targeted to disorders of the gastrointestinal tract. It is entirely safe and has been shown to be efficacious. Sessions are conducted while patients are in a light and relaxed subconscious state. Once in this state suggestions for the control and normalisation of gastrointestinal function are made. Metaphors for bringing about change are also used. This type of therapy differs from other forms of psychological treatment where therapy is done with the patient in a conscious state. Gut-directed hypnotherapy can be used in both adults and children.
Treatment protocol
Treatment consists of approximately 5 sessions each 1 hour long.