Alda Curtis

A conversation with Alda Curtis

• What led you to choose psychotherapy or counselling as a profession?

  I’ve always been drawn to understanding people’s stories and what helps them heal and grow. My early work in social work and supporting people through adversity showed me the power of compassionate listening and connection. Over time, I realised that counselling and psychotherapy were the most meaningful ways for me to support others in finding hope, clarity, and strength, especially during life’s toughest moments. Helping people feel seen, heard, and empowered continues to inspire me every day.

• Which philosophical approaches have influenced your professional development?

  My practice is strongly influenced by humanistic and person-centred philosophies, which value each person’s unique experience, autonomy, and potential for growth. I also draw from trauma-informed and strengths-based frameworks, as well as mindfulness and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT). These approaches help me create a collaborative, respectful space where clients feel safe to explore, heal, and move forward at their own pace.

• Which particular aspects of health or the human journey are you interested in?

  I’m deeply interested in how people cope with and adapt to life’s challenges - whether it’s anxiety, trauma, grief, neurodivergence, or major transitions. I’m passionate about supporting clients in building resilience, self-acceptance, and emotional well-being. I also find it rewarding to help people navigate identity, find meaning during difficult times, and reconnect with their strengths and sense of purpose.

• What methods do you use?

  I use a person-centred, strengths-based approach, drawing on evidence-based methods such as Cognitive Behaviour Therapy (CBT), Solution-Focused Therapy, mindfulness, and trauma-informed practice. I also integrate psychodynamic insights, life coaching, and hypnotherapy when helpful. My goal is to tailor therapy to each client’s unique needs and preferences, creating a safe and supportive space for growth.

• When do you think the client will start to feel that progress is being made?

  Everyone’s journey is unique, but many clients start to notice progress when they begin to feel heard, understood, and a little more hopeful. Sometimes small changes, like new insights, coping skills, or simply feeling less alone, happen within the first few sessions. Real, lasting change can take time, but often it’s the little shifts that signal things are moving in the right direction. I encourage clients to notice and celebrate even the smallest steps forward.

• How has therapy made a difference in your life?

  Therapy has been transformative in my own journey of healing and personal development. It’s helped me process life’s challenges, understand myself more deeply, and build stronger, more authentic connections with others. Most importantly, therapy supported me in shifting my mindset from self-doubt and worry to a much more positive, hopeful outlook. This experience fuels my belief in people’s capacity to grow, heal, and thrive, no matter where they start.

• What do you like most about being a therapist?

  What I love most about being a therapist is witnessing the resilience and growth in my clients. It’s a privilege to provide a safe space where people feel truly heard and supported, often in their most vulnerable moments. Seeing clients gain confidence, clarity, and hope - even in small steps - reminds me every day of the strength we all have inside us. Helping others move towards healing and a more fulfilling life is incredibly rewarding.

• Do you ever have 'bad hair' days?

  Absolutely! I’d say my hair is rarely having a “good” day. :) Real life isn’t always perfect - and neither is my hair! Thankfully, in therapy, what matters most is showing up as ourselves, just as we are, ready to heal and grow.

• What do you think is the most significant problem we face, in the world today?

  One of the most significant problems we face today is disconnection - from ourselves, from each other, and from our communities. In a fast-paced world, many people feel isolated, overwhelmed, or unheard. I believe healing starts with genuine connection, empathy, and understanding - qualities that can help us build a kinder, more resilient world together.

• Can you share the name of a book, film, song, event or work of art that inspires you?

  I’m inspired by Brené Brown’s The Power of Vulnerability. Her work beautifully highlights the courage it takes to be open and authentic, and how real growth comes from embracing our imperfections. It’s a powerful reminder that vulnerability is not a weakness, but a source of connection and strength - something I strive to bring into my practice every day.