The model is put together from my own life experiences, academic study, further training and my Supervision training with Robin Shohet. In addition to my Integrative Diploma in Counselling and Psychotherapy I have studied Mindfulness with Prof Mark Williams and see his book “Mindfulness – A Practical Guide to finding peace in a frantic World” as “The Bible” on how to bring our minds into the present moment. This is difficult to do but with the right techniques and regular practice I do believe it is possible to live in a state of Enjoyment 80%-90% of our life.
Another huge influence on this S.A.F.E. model was Gill Edward’s book, “Life is a Gift” and I would strongly recommend this to anyone who wants to examine ways of ‘getting into the flow’ and gain a more positive and peaceful outlook on life.
My training in Brief Solution Focused Therapy has had huge influence on this model. It has allowed me to see the great value of directing a client to come into the present moment and focus on a preferred future. In other words, to focus on the here and now and what is working well, and then inviting the client to focus on the solution that will give them a preferred future, which since experiencing this model of therapy they are now successfully doing.
Finally, a Rogerian approach underpins any work I do. So, if you feel unable to embrace the 3 core conditions of genuineness, empathy and unconditional love in your work you will have less success with the S.A.F.E. model.
If you’d like to find out more about my S.A.F.E model and how it might help you, or your own clients, please do get in touch: apollopsychotherapy@gmail.com