Therapy in English

I am a psychologist
in private practice
in downtown Oslo,
accepting adults for
short-term and long-term therapy

About the psychologist

Tuva is a clinical psychologist educated from the University of Oslo.

Tuva’s approach as a psychologist is mainly influenced by the dynamic tradition of psychotherapy, where the therapeutic relationship itself is a major vehicle for transformation and understanding.

Therapy is always about tailoring the treatment and forms of investigation to the person.

From 2009 to 2011 she was a therapy rater in Leigh McCullough’s research on The Affect Phobia model. Her master thesis was on this project. From 2015 to 2016 she was Administrative Secretary at The Norwegian Institute for Mentalizing.

From 2005 to 2016 she was a student of Sandra Maitri in The Diamond Approach. From 2012 until 2014 she took part in the teacher-training program in this school. The Diamond Approach integrates the perennial philosophy and techniques from the wisdom traditions with contemporary psychology. Tuva is also influenced by Buddhist philosophy.

Her master thesis in Comparative Literature (University of Oslo) was on the relation between The Four Quartets by T. S. Eliot and the Buddhist philosopher Nagarjuna. Her bachelor degree from the same University was in French, Nordic and Latin.

At present she is finishing a PhD at Oslo University Hospital.

Approach to therapy

In my work, I draw inspiration from my background and training beyond clinical psychology, from literature, meditation, and mindfulness, to many years of personal development work within various wisdom traditions.

My experience is that many who seek therapy or consult a psychologist do not perceive themselves as “ill” but rather find themselves at a crossroads in life, looking for guidance from an objective, external perspective.

My Approach to Therapy

I have an integrative approach to therapy. This means that I use various models and methods to tailor the treatment to your needs, your situation, and your personality. I draw much inspiration from the psychodynamic tradition. I am committed to maintaining an open dialogue with you about what you find most effective. Below, we have described some general aspects of engaging in therapy.

Working on Yourself

When life is challenging or when we feel stuck in recurring patterns, meeting with a professional conversation partner can be of great help. It can provide us with a new perspective on our situation, as well as concrete tools and guidance to move forward.

Starting to work on oneself can feel like taking on a task that we have been postponing because it feels uncomfortable or overwhelming. In this work, it is especially important that we bring two things: First, patience and kindness towards ourselves, without criticizing or judging ourselves for our problems or our situation.

Second, we need courage and perseverance to confront the difficult, even when we occasionally doubt or feel like giving up, and to take steps toward the life we desire.

A Safe Relationship

In therapy, we work together to create a safe space for growth. Our role as therapists is to use our conversation to create an environment in which you feel comfortable, even as we explore challenging topics.

Over time, the safety and trust we build in the therapy room can be something you carry with you into other areas of your life. With a foundation of security and trust, it becomes easier to open up to new growth and development.

Change and Insight

An overarching goal of therapy is change towards renewed joy and meaning in life. Our experience is that change is most robust and lasting when we gain insight into how we function, while at the same time making concrete changes in our lives.

When we understand the mechanisms of how we operate, we can more consciously choose how to handle situations instead of operating on “autopilot.”

In my experience, many who seek therapy or a psychologist do not see themselves as “ill,” but rather find themselves at a crossroads in life where they are seeking guidance from an objective outsider.

Short-term therapy
Solution-focused therapy with an emphasis on a specific area of concern. The therapeutic approach and method will be tailored to your situation.

Long-term therapy
A more extended therapeutic process where we work with underlying personality patterns that may be limiting you in life. In a safe and supportive environment, you will have the time and space to address and resolve difficult emotions and behavioural patterns that have been with you for a long time.

Therapeutic methods

Among the approaches I use are:

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	Psychodynamic therapy
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	Cognitive therapy
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	Gestalt therapy
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	Mindfulness
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	Emotion-focused therapy
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Typical reasons for
seeking therapy:

Stress management
Burnout
Grief and loss
Depression
Social anxiety
Difficulty in relationship
Performance anxiety
Issues with food, body, exercise and self-image
Desire to work out past trauma
Lack of motivation or meaning
Difficult job situation
Problem with addiction

I work with every kind of person and whichever themes and problems they bring.