Joy Mandel
A New Yorker living in the UK
Style of Working
I use an integrative approach drawing on training in systemic, humanistic, ACT (Acceptance & Commitment Therapy), Mindfulness, and EFCT (Emotionally Focused Couple Therapy).
I have a special interest in adult attachment issues, and often call on the techniques of Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT) in my couple work, based on the pioneering work of Dr. Sue Johnson in Canada, with whom I’ve had the privilege to have trained with.
While using words to communicate is the cornerstone of therapy, with some clients I also like to turn to other methods, such as the use of creative techniques including images, drawing and buttons, for example, to help them to go ‘beneath’ the words and access the bigger picture for themselves. I also find that a well developed sense of humour is an important resource in this work!
Training & qualifications
I have been specifically trained in the field of human relationships and sexuality and am experienced in working with both couples and individuals to sensitively explore difficult issues in these areas. I use an integrative approach drawing on training in systemic, humanistic, CBT, NLP, Imago Relationship Therapy (IRT) and EFT (Emotionally Focused Therapy).
I grew up in Brooklyn, New York, and have lived in the UK since 1985. I earned an M. ED from Florida Atlantic University, and in the UK, I trained at the Relate Institute at the University of East London, to become a Relate-UK certified practitioner.I took further training in Psychosexual & Relationship therapy at Regents College, London, earning the London Diploma in Psychosexual and Relationship Counselling. I then went on to compete a 4 day training at the Tavistock Institute in London with Dr. Sue Johnson to further my skills in the practice of Emotionally Focused Couple Therapy, and to become a qualified member of the International Centre for Excellence in Emotionally Focused Therapy (ICEEFT). In addition to my private practice, I worked for many years at Relate West Kent as one of their experienced and fully accredited counsellors.
- Fully Accredited Member, College of Sexual and Relationship Therapists (COSRT, ACCRED)
- Professional Member, Association for Independent Practitioners (AIP)
- Professional Member, International Centre for Excellence in Emotionally Focused Therapy (ICEEFT)