When people hear names like ACT, CBT, or Solution-Focused Therapy, it can sound pretty clinical or overwhelming. With Glenda’s guidance, these evidence-based approaches are simple, human, and surprisingly practical.
ACT (Acceptance and Commitment Therapy)
Learning to accept what we can change and what we cannot control are important tenets of Act. We also must learn to accept that we have a range of thoughts, sensations and feelings that flow constantly. Naturally, we want to get rid of the uncomfortable ones and have more of the pleasant ones. Imagine your mind is like a radio constantly playing — sometimes it’s upbeat, sometimes it’s broadcasting old worries or fears. ACT teaches you not to waste energy fighting the noise. Instead, you learn to turn down the emotional volume, accept that the noise is there, and still move toward the life you want. In a Bee You Counselling session, this might mean getting in touch with your values, finding where emotions are felt in the body, practicing mindfulness exercises, learning how to “unhook” from painful thoughts, and setting small, meaningful goals even when things feel messy.
CBT (Cognitive Behavioural Therapy)
Think of CBT as a kind of mental “debugging” tool. It helps you notice the sneaky ways your thoughts can distort reality — like catastrophising (“This is the worst thing ever!”) or mind reading (“They must think I’m a failure”). Ever said, ‘This was a terrible day. My whole life is terrible!’ Truth or ‘all or nothing thinking’? There are lots of cognitive distortions us humans commonly employ. Becoming aware of how these unhelpful thoughts can sabotage our wellbeing is the first step to thinking in a more helpful, workable way. Glenda works with you to gently challenge underlying beliefs and patterns of thinking to replace them with more balanced, helpful ways of thinking. It’s less about “thinking happy thoughts” and more about thinking in a way that’s actually balanced and useful.
Solution-Focused Therapy
Instead of focusing on everything that’s wrong, Solution-Focused Therapy asks, “What’s already working? What strengths, skills and resources do you already possess to help you solve a particular problem or dilemma? What’s one small step you could take today?”
Solution Focused Therapy is great for short term, one off problems or can look like short, energising conversations where the spotlight stays on strengths, successes, and possibilities — even in tough times. It can help you get unstuck and build some momentum.
Why choose Bee You Counselling in Parkdale?
Glenda McDonald’s sessions are customised to your needs, combining different approaches. You’ll receive practical tools, compassionate support, and meaningful progress.
Feeling a bit stuck or unsure of how to solve a problem? Enquire today and get started on the pathway forward.