About GDS Health 

Hello, I'm Glyn David Smithson, a dedicated psychotherapist and clinical consultant with a deep passion for supporting individuals who maybe struggling with a plethora of things in this modern day. I have been working with mental health, alchohol, drugs, anxiety, depression and traumatic experiences, for over two decades.

Our Approach: Embedding Trauma-Informed Principles in Every Aspect of Care

At GDS Health, our approach to mental health care is defined by a deep commitment to trauma-informed principles, which serve as the foundation for everything we do. We recognize that trauma is a pervasive and often unrecognized factor in mental health challenges, and our services are designed with this awareness at the core. By weaving these principles into our policies, procedures, and service delivery, we ensure that every client receives care that is compassionate, effective, and sensitive to their unique experiences.

Trauma-Informed Care: A Comprehensive Framework
Trauma-informed care is not a standalone intervention but a comprehensive framework that influences every aspect of our organization. It begins with recognizing the widespread impact of trauma and understanding the potential paths for recovery. At GDS Health, we approach each client with the understanding that trauma can affect anyone, regardless of their background or circumstances.

Our trauma-informed approach is built on the following key principles:

Safety, Physical and Emotional Security: We prioritize creating environments—both physical and emotional—where clients feel safe and secure. Our facilities are designed to be welcoming and non-threatening, with staff trained to foster a sense of safety through their interactions.

Predictable Procedures: By ensuring that our procedures are transparent and predictable, we reduce the likelihood of triggering past traumas. Clients are informed about what to expect at every stage of their care, which helps to alleviate anxiety and build trust.

we offer a variety of evidence-based psychotherapy modalities to support individuals with mental health challenges and promote overall well-being. Our approach is tailored to meet the unique needs of each client, and we incorporate a range of modalities to achieve the best possible outcomes.

Family Systems (IFS) therapy. IFS Therapy: This modality was developed by Dr. Richard Schwartz and is a trauma-informed approach that focuses on working with different parts of the self, including the "protector" parts that may be contributing to mental health challenges. IFS helps clients identify and understand their inner world, and develop greater self-compassion and self-awareness. 

Somatic body-based therapy. Somatic Body-Based Therapy: This modality focuses on the relationship between the body and the mind, and how emotional and psychological experiences can be stored in the body. Somatic therapy incorporates techniques such as breathing exercises, body awareness, and movement to help clients release physical tension and process traumatic experiences. 

We also incorporate Polyvagal Theory into our approach. Polyvagal Theory: This neuroscience-based approach was developed by Dr. Stephen Porges and focuses on the nervous system's response to stress and trauma. By understanding the role of the nervous system in regulating emotional states, we can help clients develop greater self-regulation and resilience. 

By creating a safe and supportive environment and taking a client-centered approach, we can help clients feel empowered and supported in their healing journey. 

By incorporating a range of evidence-based modalities and focusing on the whole person, not just the symptoms, we can help clients achieve lasting well-being and improved overall quality of life.

At GDS Health, we are committed to providing our clients with the most effective and evidence-based treatment options to support their journey toward lasting well-being.

Trustworthiness and Transparency

Open Communication: We believe that trust is built through honesty and openness. Our clinicians are committed to transparent communication, ensuring that clients are always fully informed about their treatment options and the processes involved.
Consistency in Care: Consistency is key to maintaining trust. At GDS Health, we ensure that our clients can rely on consistent support from our team, helping to foster a stable and trusting therapeutic relationship.
Peer Support

Collaborative Healing: We recognize the powerful role that peer support plays in healing from trauma. Our approach includes opportunities for clients to connect with others who have similar experiences, creating a sense of community and mutual support.

Empowerment through Shared Experiences:

Peer support is a vital component of our services, offering clients the chance to learn from others' experiences, gain new perspectives, and feel less isolated in their healing journey.

Shared Decision-Making: We view our clients as partners in their own care. By involving them in decision-making processesation and Mutuality, we empower them to take an active role in their healing, ensuring that their voice is heard and respected.

Professional Partnerships: Collaboration extends beyond our clients to include partnerships with other professionals and organizations. We work closely with various stakeholders in the mental health community to provide comprehensive and coordinated care.

Empowerment, Voice, and Choice

Promoting Autonomy: Empowerment is central to our approach. We provide clients with the tools and resources they need to make informed choices about their care, fostering a sense of autonomy and control over their mental health journey.

Strengths-Based Approach: Our services focus on identifying and building upon each client’s strengths, encouraging resilience and self-efficacy. This approach helps clients to recognize their own capacity for healing and growth.
Cultural, Historical, and Gender Issues

Culturally Competent Care: We are committed to providing care that is culturally sensitive and inclusive. Our services are tailored to meet the diverse needs of our clients, taking into account cultural, historical, and gender-related factors that may influence their mental health.

Addressing Historical Trauma: We recognize the impact of historical and intergenerational trauma, particularly among marginalized communities. Our approach includes an understanding of these complex issues and a commitment to addressing them in our care delivery.

The trauma-informed principles that guide our approach are not just theoretical—they are embedded in the very fabric of GDS Health. From our policies to our day-to-day procedures, these principles are reflected in how we operate. This includes training our staff in trauma-informed practices, ensuring our policies are designed to minimize the risk of re-traumatization, and continuously evaluating our services to align with these principles.

Service Delivery: A Holistic and Individualized Approach
Our trauma-informed approach is seamlessly integrated into every service we offer. Whether a client is receiving individual therapy, participating in a group session, or engaging in one of our community programs, they can trust that their care is being delivered with a trauma-informed lens. This ensures that every interaction, every intervention, and every service is designed to support healing, build resilience, and promote overall well-being.

At GDS Health, we are committed to setting a new standard in mental health care. Using evidenced based tried and tested approaches working with it is a promise to our clients that their safety, trust, and empowerment are our top priorities, every step of the way.