Therapeutic Services

We are a highly specialised, fully integrated, discreet service based in Central London. We can provide a wide range of therapeutic services designed to tackle a range of issues and offer a world-class approach to mental and behavioural health conditions.

What do we offer?

At Ishmail & Associates, we believe a trauma-informed, integrated treatment approach is the most effective method for anyone suffering from a mental or behavioural health condition, and we advocate medical support as well as therapeutic services.

We draw from a range of therapeutic treatment approaches including CBT, DBT, EMDR, mindfulness, family and couples therapy and relapse prevention.

Cognitive-Behavioural Therapy

Cognitive-behavioural therapy (CBT) is a widely recognised and evidence-based form of psychotherapy. It focuses on understanding the relationship between thoughts, emotions, and behaviours and aims to identify and modify negative patterns that contribute to psychological distress.

CBT operates on the belief that our thoughts influence our feelings and actions, and by challenging and replacing irrational or unhelpful thoughts, we can improve our well-being. Through structured sessions, clients learn to identify automatic negative thoughts, analyse their validity, and develop more realistic and adaptive thinking patterns.

CBT is effective in treating various mental health conditions, including anxiety, depression, phobias, and obsessive-compulsive disorder, and offers practical strategies to enhance coping skills and promote lasting change.

Dialectical Behavioural Therapy

Dialectical behavioural therapy (DBT) is a therapeutic approach designed to help individuals struggling with emotional regulation and interpersonal difficulties.

DBT combines elements of cognitive-behavioural therapy with mindfulness practices. It promotes acceptance and validation of emotions while simultaneously encouraging change.

DBT focuses on four key modules: mindfulness, distress tolerance, emotion regulation, and interpersonal effectiveness.

Through these modules, clients learn skills to manage intense emotions, cope with distressing situations, regulate their emotions effectively, and improve their interpersonal relationships.

DBT has been particularly effective in treating borderline personality disorder, and it has also shown benefits in addressing other mental health conditions, such as anxiety, depression, eating disorders and substance use disorder.

EMDR

Eye movement desensitisation and reprocessing therapy (EMDR) is a psychotherapy approach primarily used to treat trauma and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD).

EMDR incorporates elements of cognitive-behavioural therapy with techniques such as eye movements, sounds, or tapping. The therapy aims to process traumatic memories and alleviate their associated distress by activating the brain’s natural healing processes.

During EMDR sessions, clients focus on distressing memories while engaging in bilateral stimulation, which helps reprocess the traumatic memory and change the way it is stored in the brain. EMDR has been shown to be effective in reducing the symptoms of PTSD and facilitating emotional healing and resolution of traumatic experiences.

Mindfulness

Mindfulness is a practice that involves paying attention to the present moment with openness, curiosity, and non-judgement. Rooted in ancient Buddhist traditions, it has gained popularity as a secular approach to improving mental well-being.

Mindfulness involves observing thoughts, sensations, and emotions without getting caught up in them. By cultivating a state of focused awareness, individuals can develop a greater understanding of their inner experiences and external surroundings.

Regular mindfulness practice has been shown to reduce stress, enhance self-awareness, promote emotional regulation, improve concentration, and foster a sense of overall well-being. It can be practised through meditation, mindful breathing, body scans, or being fully present when engaging in everyday activities.

Family and Couples Therapy

Couples and family therapy provides a safe and supportive environment for all members to express their thoughts, emotions, and concerns. Our therapists work collaboratively with you and your partner, or other members of your family to identify and address underlying issues, improve communication, and develop healthier patterns of interaction.

The therapy explores dynamics, promotes understanding, and helps build empathy and connection, providing the tools you need to cope with life after treatment.

Couples and family therapy can be effective in addressing a wide range of relationship challenges, including conflicts, infidelity, parenting issues, blended family dynamics, and communication breakdowns, fostering healthier and more fulfilling relationships.

Relapse Prevention Therapy

Relapse prevention therapy (RPT) is an evidence-based approach designed to help individuals maintain long-term recovery from addictive behaviours or substance use disorders. It focuses on identifying and managing high-risk situations, triggers, and thoughts that may lead to relapse.

RPT helps individuals develop coping strategies, enhance self-control, and build a strong support system. Our team of therapists work closely with clients to create personalised relapse prevention plans, incorporating strategies like self-monitoring, stress management, assertiveness training, and problem-solving skills.

The therapy promotes self-awareness, identifying early warning signs, and implementing effective strategies to prevent relapse and maintain sustainable recovery. While relapse is common in recovery, with the right support, it can be avoided, and RPT plays a vital role in supporting individuals towards long-term sobriety.

Customer Testimonials

As a counsellor, Michael has both superior knowledge and extensive experience combined with a gentle and caring strength.

His approach is both extremely sensitive and perceptive and his warm, calm and unassuming presence is coupled with a natural ability to understand and be fully engaged.

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We work with members of respected organisations to deliver our services.

Contact Us

We know that time is of the essence when it comes to effective treatment and as such, we are available any time, day or night. We can provide immediate and effective care, facilitating an online assessment with an expert psychiatrist within 24 hours.