Claudia Behnke is a psychotherapist in North London and online

What attracted you to become a therapist?

I've always been intrigued by mental health, engaging in nightlong conversations about neuroscience and human behaviour with my best friend during our teenage years. Admittedly, it's an unconventional interest for a teenager, but my fascination with understanding human behaviour and motivations runs deep.

Moving to London to study psychology was a pivotal moment for me. Despite an extended detour into the fashion industry, I found my way back to my curiosity about the human mind and thus psychotherapy when a colleague introduced me to a friend teaching at the Institute of Psychosynthesis. I attended the opening day, felt an undeniable sense of alignment, and let my intuition lead the way from there. And here I am, a story of following one's gut to a fulfilling career!

Where did you train?

I completed my psychotherapy diploma at the Institute of Psychosynthesis, where I also pursued my Master's degree. The MA program was accredited by Middlesex University, ensuring a recognised academic framework.

Can you tell us about the type of therapy you practise?

Psychosynthesis is a depth psychology. It's a journey to the very root of issues, which means the timeframe for healing is variable. It's beneficial for clients to come with an open mind and patience, as the process is profound and can take time.

From the moment I stepped into the Institute, I didn't feel the need to explore other modalities. Psychosynthesis resonated with me on a deep level; it felt like returning home, or like uncovering a calling that had always been mine. What I truly appreciate is how this approach holds space for a client's greatest potential, even when we're in the thick of their challenges.

The integration of eastern philosophies, such as the Chakra system, and the use of mindfulness and visualisation techniques enrich the therapeutic experience, offering a holistic path to healing.

How does psychosynthesis therapy help?

Psychosynthesis offers a helpful approach to managing symptoms of conditions like anxiety, emotional dysregulation, and ADHD. It does so through the concept of subpersonalities, which are essentially the varied parts of our psyche.

The therapy enables individuals to orchestrate these parts harmoniously, rather than being unconsciously driven by them due to past experiences. It's about becoming the conductor of your inner world, so to speak.

This perspective allows clients to engage with their symptoms in a way that acknowledges their complexity and aims for integration rather than suppression.

What sort of people do you usually see?

My practice welcomes individuals of all ages but the majority of people in my practice are in their 20s and 30s navigating existential crises and searching for deeper meaning in their lives.

I often address relationship challenges, whether within family dynamics or between romantic partners, and also guide couples through their interpersonal difficulties.

Have you noticed any recent mental health trends or wider changes in attitude?

I believe there is a significant shift in societal attitudes, particularly among the younger generations, who display a growing curiosity about gender and sexuality and a desire to explore these aspects of themselves more freely. They face choices around traditional life milestones-marriage, home ownership, parenthood-that their parents and grandparents may not have considered as optional. This newfound freedom is exhilarating yet can also be a source of confusion and numerous questions. It has sparked a deeper quest for personal meaning, as they contemplate how to shape a fulfilling and significant life outside the boundaries of conventional norms.

What do you like about being a therapist?

What I cherish most about being a therapist is the deep connection I form with people. There's a profound sense of honour in being invited into someone's personal journey, each marked by its unique narrative and challenges. The realisation that I've positively impacted someone's life is both humbling and immensely gratifying. It's not just about the changes I witness in my clients, but also about the growth I experience alongside them.

What is less pleasant?

The less pleasant aspect of being a therapist is navigating the endings. They can be quite poignant, especially if not handled with care. This is why I place great emphasis on discussing the closure process at the start of our work together. It's essential to prepare and ensure that when the time comes to part ways, it's done in a way that feels respectful for both parties.

How long have you been with Welldoing and what you think of us?

I have been with Welldoing for about three years. Welldoing stands out to me as a one-stop resource for therapists, offering a directory, continuous professional development CPD opportunities, and a supportive community.

The team behind Welldoing is attentive and encouraging, which I find invaluable. I also really like the platform's dedication to sharing knowledge through its informative articles and newsletters. These often include insightful psychotherapeutic analyses of current events, making it not just a tool for finding clients or professional growth, but also a source of ongoing education and engagement with the broader mental health discourse.

What books have been important to you in terms of your professional and personal development? Do you ever recommend books to clients?

Yes, too many to mention but here is a selection of my favourites:

• Waking the Tiger by Peter Levine offers profound insights into healing trauma
• Daring Greatly by Brené Brown encourages the courage to be vulnerable
• Facing Love Addiction by Pia Melody delves into the complexities of addictive relationships
• Women Who Love Too Much by Robin Norwood is a deep dive into the patterns of dysfunctional relationships
• Set Boundaries, Find Peace by Nedra Glover Tawwab provides practical guidance on setting healthy limits
• It Didn't Start with You by Mark Wolynn explores the impact of family trauma
• Dark Nights of the Soul by Thomas Moore offers comfort during life's darker periods
• Eastern Body, Western Mind by Anodea Judith bridges the gap between Eastern spiritual healing practices and Western psychology
• What We May Be by Pierro Ferrucci unfolds the potentials of psychosynthesis
• Healing the Fragmented Selves of Trauma Survivors by Janina Fisher - a vital read to understand the complexity of trauma.