Zsuzsanna Purnell

Transactional analysis looks at how we communicate and relate, using the idea of three “ego states”: parent, adult and child. It helps you recognise recurring patterns in your relationships and the life scripts behind them. It offers clear, practical ideas for change.

Cognitive behavioural therapy looks at how thoughts, feelings and actions keep each other going. Together you notice the patterns that hold a problem in place and try out new ways of thinking and acting, often with small practical tasks between sessions. It is widely used for anxiety, low mood, stress and sleep problems.

Relational therapy sees wellbeing as closely tied to our relationships. The relationship with the therapist itself becomes a place to notice patterns and try new ways of connecting. It suits people who want to understand how they relate to others and why some situations keep repeating.

Humanistic therapies see every person as capable of growth and focus on the whole person rather than a diagnosis. They value the relationship between client and therapist, your own experience and your right to make your own choices. Person-centred, gestalt and existential therapy are among the best-known humanistic approaches.

Emotion-focused therapy (EFT) sees emotions as important guides that can be understood and changed. It helps you notice, name and work with feelings, including painful ones, so they become less overwhelming. It is also widely used with couples, to understand the emotional cycles between partners and build a closer bond.