Depth-orientated psychotherapy and counselling for individuals
Much contemporary therapy is brief, solution-focused or structured around defined goals. For some people this is appropriate. For others, something slower and more searching is sought.
Depth psychotherapy is concerned not only with symptoms or immediate dilemmas, but also the underlying patterns of personality, attachment, desire and defence that shape a life over time. It asks not simply "How do I change this?" but "How did this come to be, and what in me keeps it organised in this way?"
This work is usually undertaken weekly. In some cases, and where there is a clear therapeutic rationale, it may be more or less frequent.
The character of depth work
Depth-orientated therapy tends to be:
- exploratory rather than solution-led
- attentive to dreams, imagery and symbolic material where relevant
- concerned with recurring relational patterns
- willing to tolerate uncertainty rather than rushing toward closure
- interested in the therapeutic relationship itself as a living dynamic.
Depth work allows the unedited experience of your inner and relational life to be brought into the room. Over time, what has been defended against, repeated or unconsciously organised can begin to loosen.
This is not fast work. It is cumulative.
Tradition and training
My practice is informed by both contemporary therapeutic thinking and older analytic traditions.
I trained in counselling and psychotherapy in Cambridge in the early 2000s, and my development as a clinician has been shaped by long-term personal analytic work. I undertook Jungian analysis at a frequency of twice and, at times, three times weekly over several years. That experience continues to inform the way I understand depth and symbolic life.
Another part of my professional training was grounded in Adlerian theory, drawing on the work of Alfred Adler and his emphasis on relational dynamics, social context and patterns of belonging and striving. The Adlerian understanding of vertical and horizontal relating remains central to how I think about power, equality and psychological movement within therapy.
These traditions are not applied as doctrine. They provide a framework within which contemporary relational practice can develop in a free and improvisational manner while allowing psychological depth to emerge.
Who this work could suit
Depth psychotherapy often suits those who:
- find that shorter or structured therapies have not reached the root of things
- are interested in understanding themselves at a deeper level
- are facing repeating relational or existential themes
- sense that something in their life is organised beyond conscious intention.
It requires commitment, curiosity and psychological stamina. It is not about quick relief, though relief often follows understanding.
Depth work often intersects with ADHD and other forms of neurodivergence, as many highly engaged and thoughtful clients explore attention, regulation and emotional intensity alongside longstanding relational and existential themes.
Practical arrangements
Depth psychotherapy is usually undertaken weekly. The regularity of sessions creates continuity and containment, allowing the work to deepen over time.
I work in person in Bristol (BS1) and online across the UK and internationally.
As with all my work, enquiries are welcome and I am careful to ensure that this form of therapy is appropriate and that there is a good therapeutic fit between us. Please be aware that my practice is busy and can often be fully committed. If this is the case when you make contact I may be able to suggest other trusted colleagues who you can contact.
Get In Touch
You are welcome to contact me but please be aware that my practice is often very busy. I review potential work carefully to ensure a good clinical fit.
To arrange an initial session or for further information, you can contact me via duncan@therapy-space.co.uk by using the contact form below, or by text or phone on 07871 257 457
Please note that responses may take several days but I aim to respond to all professional enquiries within a week.