My Journey: A Human Givens Therapist's Introduction to You
- Steve Johnson
- Mar 16
- 5 min read
Welcome to my blog! My mission is to help you to thrive, rather than just survive and I will walk alongside you as you navigate the complexities of your thoughts, feelings, and experiences.
In this post, I want to share who I am, what Human Givens therapy is, and how it can benefit you. It’s a chance for you to learn about my approach, the framework I use, and how we can work together toward your goals.
My Journey into Therapy
My fascination with the human experience has always driven me—especially the range of emotions we all feel and the complexities of our thoughts.
In my early 20's I was diagnosed with ulcerative colitis. I thought my life was over. I would never live a "normal" life and just had a future of pain, medication and hospital visits ahead of me. This affected me physically and mentally for many years but kickstarted my search for an explanation of the mind / body connection.
I also spent these 25 years working in various process, analysis & consulting roles in IT, in both the private and public sector. Problem solving and bug fixing; helping people understand how systems work in order to get the best out of them; and guiding people to work out what their needs are and how to meet them with their system, or indeed what changes to make to the system.
Helping other people has always been the part of my work, my volunteering and everyday life that has given me the most joy.
So discovering the Human Givens organising idea I realised that by learning new skills and a fundamental, robust, psychobabble-free approach I could help more people in a better way.
These many twists and turns led me to train as a Human Givens therapist, but each experience was filled with valuable lessons. I have listened to countless stories of resilience and transformation, reaffirming my belief that everyone can overcome difficulties. These encounters fuel my passion for helping others create meaningful change in their lives.
What is Human Givens Therapy?
Human Givens therapy is built on a mix of psychological principles and an understanding of our basic human needs. It starts with the belief that everyone has the inner resources to succeed, but life’s challenges can sometimes make these resources hard to access.
Thus, assistance in changing unhelpful thinking styles (cognitive) will be just one part of a holistic process that involves, usually all in one session, giving psychoeducation (explaining the experience of anxiety and depression in a way that normalises it and takes the fear out of it – this includes an understanding of the role of dreaming in depression); helping clients take a different perspective on their situation (through the use of reframing, metaphor and storytelling); problem solving (helping clients recognise times when they are not experiencing problems, what is different about those times, and how they can build on that); teaching whatever skills are required (for instance social skills, communication skills, assertiveness skills); and rehearsing making desired changes successfully (through guided imagery).
It is a practical, forward-focused approach, which concentrates on mastery of skills and understandings that people can use in the future to move on in their lives, rather than concentrating on, and being stuck in, what went wrong in the past. This is the case even if people have suffered horrific traumatising events – all human givens therapists are taught a reliable, evidence-based method for detraumatising people, which in most cases works in one session.
Thus – instead of being reliant on one ‘model’ of therapy – the human givens approach is fluid and flexible, making use of whatever techniques and approaches will best suit the particular client being worked with, and all within the guiding framework of helping clients meet missing emotional needs and using innate mental resources in the healthiest ways possible.
Core Principles of Human Givens Therapy
At the core of Human Givens therapy are essential principles aimed at meeting our emotional and psychological needs:
Meeting Essential Needs: The Human Givens approach is founded on the idea that fulfilling our primary needs—such as security, attention, and a sense of control—is vital for mental health.
Cultivating Resilience: This therapy recognises that we can build resilience. By identifying our strengths and using our internal resources, we can better handle life’s challenges.
Effective Techniques: We utilise various techniques based on psychological research, including guided imagery, to help clients reframe their experiences and perceptions.
Client-Therapist Collaboration: Therapy is a joint effort. By exchanging perspectives, we can create an environment based on trust and cooperation, fostering progress.
Your Needs Are at the Centre
Your needs and goals are at the heart of the sessions. My approach is customised for each individual, understanding that every person's experience is distinct.
We'll start your journey by discussing your current situation, the challenges you're facing, and the changes you want to make. During our sessions, I will help you rediscover your strengths and resources, empowering you to use them for growth.
Through these discussions, we’ll work together to create tailored strategies that make navigating life's complexities easier.
Incorporating Mindfulness and Compassion
A vital part of Human Givens therapy is fostering mindfulness and self-compassion. In today's fast-paced world, it's easy to forget the importance of being present and kind to ourselves.
Using simple mindfulness techniques, we can boost our awareness of thoughts and feelings, enabling us to respond to challenges thoughtfully rather than react impulsively. These practices can lead to healthier ways of engaging with ourselves and others.
By developing a compassionate attitude toward ourselves, we can decrease self-criticism and promote self-acceptance, a crucial element in the healing process.
Measuring Progress Together
An inspiring feature of Human Givens therapy is its focus on measurable progress and real outcomes. Together, we will set clear goals and routinely check in to ensure our work aligns with your aspirations.
As we navigate your experiences, you’ll likely notice shifts in your emotional state, patterns of thinking, and your overall view of life. I believe in celebrating every step, no matter how small, as a significant part of your journey.
Embracing Your Next Steps
Starting therapy is a brave decision, and I commend you for considering this path. I am here to support and empower you along the way.
In every session, my goal is to create a safe, nurturing space for you to explore your feelings, understand your needs, and find the tools for positive change.
If you’re ready to take the next step toward personal growth, I encourage you to reach out. Together, we can explore your experiences and illuminate the path forward.
Thank you for allowing me to share my journey as a Human Givens therapist. I look forward to the possibility of working together to help you become the best version of yourself!