bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Leadership potential: Measurement beyond psychometrics
Authors: Norman Julia
Published: January 2023

Key digested message

Identifying and developing individuals with the potential to progress is crucial to an organisation’s growth, success and survival. This article includes a review of current thinking on leadership potential and then goes on to suggest robust ways to measure this, alongside assessment of performance, using a combination of bespoke behavioural simulations, psychometrics and a complex processing test.
Explorers of implicit motivation part 2Investigating the unconscious
Authors: McCredie Hugh
Published: January 2023

Key digested message

At the turn of the nineteenth to the twentieth century, there was great interest in the role of the unconscious in the development of psychological dysfunction, although the construct motive, or specific motives, was not widely acknowledged. This, the second article in a series on motivation, traces the route to the emergence of such a construct in the 1930s and early 1940s. Our starting point is a compilation, Birney and Teevan, (1962), consisting of reprinted sequential landmark contributions, entitled ‘Measuring human motivation: An enduring problem in psychology’.
What competencies will leaders need in a new Covid-19 world?
Authors: Wright Stewart
Published: January 2023

Key digested message

The Covid-19 crisis created a particular pattern of shock – a rolling, growing, unpredictably evolving and quickly accelerating shock with fundamental, deeply-felt and frequently tragic impacts. The leadership agenda in response to this has, and will need to be equally fundamental, and, particularly for organisations in distress, undertaken with urgency.

Whether they be leaders within the public or private sector, they will need to at least re-visit and potentially create new visions and values for their organisations; to embed resilience and resourcefulness in order to sustain new shocks; to undertake more horizon-scanning particularly for low-frequency but high-impact existential risks; and to engage and inspire virtually-working and remote teams behind the new vision for their organisations.
Making change stick: Facilitating habit change using a smartphone app
Authors: Hughes Dan , Boothroyd Poppy
Published: January 2023

Key digested message

Achieving sustainable behaviour change ideally requires new positive habits to be developed. A key feature of successful habit change seems to be repeated practice (preferably daily). Research on using smartphone apps to facilitate habit change and encourage repeated practice shows promise but needs to be explored further in workplace context.

This article explores the design and evaluation of a digital habit change exercise, delivered through a smartphone app, to help employees develop their Emotional Intelligence (EI). We share data about levels of user engagement in the exercise and the relationship between frequency of habit change practice and perceived improvement in the desired behaviour. The results from this initial evaluation suggest this is a promising approach which should be explored and enhanced further.
Cultural differences across industry sectors
Authors: Potter Amanda , Cooper Caitlin
Published: January 2023

Key digested message

The authors have collected information on personal values across a range of industries, enabling them to understand where the greatest individual differences exist across industries. In this article they share these insights and explore the impact for increasing cultural fit and building a high-performing culture.
Asian women and self-harm: A coping strategy
Authors: Muntaha Sidrah
Published: January 2023

This paper highlights the high rate of self-harm in young Asian women in the UK. Risk factors include family difficulties, social isolation, depression and sexual abuse. Suggestions for service development include raising awareness about self-harm and reducing stigma in local communities. Culturally appropriate ways of providing care are also discussed.
In-patient groups: Setting up, running and evaluating ‘stand alone’ groups on adult acute in-patient wards
Authors: Fell Alison , Sams Naomi
Published: January 2023

This article describes setting up, running and evaluating open ‘stand alone’ psychoeducational and cognitive behavioural therapeutic groups in an adult acute in-patient setting.
The value of formulation: A question for debate
Authors: Butler Gillian
Published: January 2023

Research has started to find out whether formulations are reliable and to measure their impact on the outcome of therapy. This paper asks whether the value of formulations will be adequately reflected in indices of reliability and measures of outcome.
Lost for words
Authors: Kelly Paul , Moloney Paul
Published: January 2023

Philosophy’s like medicine: lots of drugs, few remedies, and hardly any complete cures

(Chamfort; in Parmee, 2003, p.42).

This paper suggests that the ‘alternative’ postmodernist-inspired narrative therapies are not as alternative as they seem.
Reflections on the practice of clinical psychology
Authors: Diamond Bob
Published: January 2023

Clinical and counselling psychology have many valuable things to say about distress that are being overlooked due to the present preoccupation with individual therapy.
Notes from the Chair
Authors: Cate Tim
Published: January 2023

Tim Cate on why August is not such a quiet month after all
Take some new trainees and add late nights, party food and life events: The experience of using problem-based learning in training
Authors: Griffith Emma , Love Helen , Newell Ben , Scrase Caroline
Published: January 2023

This paper reports the problem-based learning (PBL) experience of one group of trainees in clinical psychology training. It touches briefly on the evidence base for PBL but concentrates on presenting our experiences and reflections of involvement in this learning paradigm.
Two structured models of suicide in adults: Content, synthesis, utility and critique
Authors: McNicholl Declan , Street Julian
Published: January 2023

This paper considers psychological aspects of suicide. A review of the literature identifies two main psychological models. The utility, limitations and predictive power of these models are explored. Suggestions are made for further understanding of suicide.
An extraordinary day
Authors: Hayward Mark , Green Ruth , Meddings Sara
Published: January 2023

This article will use multiple perspectives to describe the process of several hundred people meeting to explore the possible ordinariness of the experience of hearing voices.
ACT: A new acronym you need to know about
Authors: Thompson Miles
Published: January 2023

This article presents ‘acceptance and commitment Therapy’ – a theoretically grounded and empirically supported approach that combines aspects of behavioural therapy and mindfulness.
Exploring a brief consultation and advisory approach to non-complex referrals in child and adolescent mental health services
Authors: McGarry Joan , Mc Nicholas Fiona , Buckley Hannah , Atkin Louise , Ross Niamh
Published: January 2023

This paper outlines a study currently under way in two child and adolescent mental health services (CAMHSs). The study is evaluating a Brief Consultation and Advisory (BCA) approach to noncomplex referrals as a possible method of reducing waiting time while meeting service users’ needs and expectations.
A postnatal community social support group in Tipton, West Midlands
Authors: Vowles Amy , Orchard Lisa , Hever Tracey
Published: January 2023

Sure Start is a government initiative to help families with children under five from economically disadvantaged communities. This paper outlines the implementation of a parenting support group for parents with infants up to the age of four months.
The challenge of regular outcome assessment: Why do we fail?
Authors: d’Ardenne Patricia , Cestari Leticia , Priebe Stefan
Published: January 2023

Is it practical or ethical to collect clinical follow-up data from psychotherapy patients? We describe our heavy data loss between 2001 and 2005 in an NHS specialist clinic and how we are trying to fix it.
Psychology working in partnership with the Black and minority ethnic voluntary sector: A journey into the unknown
Authors: Idusohan Helen
Published: January 2023

I reflect on my experience of being project lead on building links with the Black and minority ethnic (BME) voluntary sector in Lambeth, and for improving access to psychological services for the diverse ethnic communities in Lambeth.
An evaluation of inpatient staff perceptions of psychological formulation meetings
Authors: Bensa Siân , Aitchison Rachel
Published: January 2023

An evaluation was performed of weekly psychological formulation meetings with nursing staff on acute inpatient wards over a year. Twenty-three staff completed a questionnaire. Staff viewed meetings as positive and helpful and reported increased client understanding and psychological knowledge.
The relationship between bipolar disorder and financial difficulties: A qualitative exploration of clients’ views
Authors: Richardson Thomas , Jansen Megan , Turton Wendy , Bell Lorraine
Published: January 2023

This paper uses a qualitative methodology to explore how those with a diagnosis of bipolar disorder view their mental health as related to their finances. Themes identified were guilt around impulse spending, comfort spending and avoidant coping with finances.
The representation of minority ethnic groups in the clinical psychology profession
Authors: Smith Jan
Published: January 2023

The recent Equality, Diversity and Inclusion declaration from the British Psychological Society (BPS, 2017) suggests it’s timely to review the representation of Black, Asian and Minority Ethnic (BAME) groups in the clinical psychology profession. This article represents one view within the broader complex debate surrounding diversity. This article is not intended to be a systematic review, but rather an update and summary focusing on the representation of BAME groups across the clinical psychology career pathway from undergraduate to applicant for clinical psychology training and qualified clinical psychologist status.
Introducing brief mindfulness practices for staff working in a locked mental health rehabilitation unit
Authors: Eke Bobbie Lorraine , Rutkauskaite Anita
Published: January 2023

The authors introduced a trial of brief mindfulness sessions for staff members working in a locked mental health rehabilitation unit. A total of 15 front line staff participated in eight sessions which introduced mindfulness concepts and associated practices or meditations. Qualitative feedback was gained throughout the programme, and eight of the participants shared their experiences pre and post group through completion of the Warwick-Edinburgh Mental Wellbeing Scale (WEMWbs), and participation in a post group interview.
Using compassion focused therapy concepts to support healthcare staff
Authors: Doherr Lizzie
Published: January 2023

I felt compelled to support a staff group undergoing significant distress during a process of change in the NHS. I set up a ‘reflective space’ session to help them consider the stressors they were under and how they were responding to these using concepts from compassion focused therapy. This reflective paper describes the group and offers thoughts on its utility.
A narrative support group for teenage girls with first episode psychosis and a history of bullying
Authors: Newman Rebecca , Jones Amy , Scrivener Amanda
Published: January 2023

A narrative support group was run for teenage girls with a first episode of psychosis and a history of bullying. Semi-structured interviews were used to evaluate the impact and effectiveness of this type of therapeutic approach.
Activities of the Spirituality and Psychiatry Special Interest Group of the Royal College of Psychiatrists
Authors: Gray Alison J.
Published: January 2023

The history and progress of the Royal College of Psychiatrists’ Spirituality and Psychiatry Special Interest Group is described, resources for studying the interface of religion, spirituality and mental health are suggested, and collaboration with the British Psychological Society is welcomed.
Food and mood
Authors: Ives Galen
Published: January 2023

No holistic assessment can be complete without at least a consideration of a person’s nutrition. There are a range of conditions of interest to the clinician resulting from nutritional deficiencies and excesses, as well as many individual idiosyncrasies which can produce psychological symptoms. This article takes a very brief look at a large and developing clinical area.
A qualitative study exploring clients’ reasons for missing appointments within a secondary care service
Authors: Smyth Natasha , Lakey James , Higginbotham Andrew
Published: January 2023

Little qualitative research exists on non-attendance of psychotherapy appointments. Eight psychotherapy clients were interviewed about their reasons for missing sessions. Thematic analysis revealed five key themes. The results demonstrate that factors affecting attendance are dynamic, nuanced and multi-layered.
Building alliances with marginalised communities to challenge London’s unjust and distressing housing system
Authors: Carey Nina , James Samantha , Dennis Aysen , Zlotowitz Sally , Gillespie Thomas , Hardy Kate
Published: January 2023

In this article we describe a role for clinical psychologists in building alliances with marginalised communities to challenge London’s unjust and distressing housing system. Unjust systems are the social contexts that create distress and we believe it should be our professional duty to challenge and change them through collective action.
Young people’s experiences of outcome measures in a CAMHS clinic
Authors: Keyes Carly , Elder-Vass Jasmine
Published: January 2023

This evaluation explored the experiences of service users of a child and adolescent mental health service (CAMHS) of using routine outcome measures (ROMS). Qualitative and quantitative results are presented.
Accreditation Programme for Psychological Therapies Services (APPTS): The experience of an integrated psychological therapies service
Authors: Pace Sonia M. , Hodge Sophie , Christodoulides Thomas , Gray Catriona
Published: January 2023

This paper outlines the experience of an integrated psychological therapies service in applying for accreditation from the Accreditation Programme for Psychological Therapies Services (APPTS). Reflections on the challenges and benefits of the APPTS process are considered.
Increasing access to computerised cognitive behaviour therapy for older people
Authors: Weir Bronagh , Power Kevin G. , Cientanni Fabia
Published: January 2023

Computerised cognitive behavioural therapy is an effective treatment of mild to moderate depression and anxiety. This article includes the reflections of a service development and evaluation project team in NHS Scotland about the barriers and facilitators experienced when working to increase access to computerised cognitive behaviour therapy for older people.
Helping the real you shine through: Reflections on the Pre-Qualification Group workshop
Authors: Stratford Megan
Published: January 2023

Having attended the Pre-Qualification ‘Helping the real you shine through’ workshop I found myself feeling inspired to offer my reflections on the day. This article offers an account of my experiences, including those which inspired, reassured and surprised me.
Working with dissociation and complex trauma in military veterans
Authors: Ormerod Jennie , McLellan Ashleigh
Published: January 2023

In this article we will outline some of the special considerations when working with a military population who have a presentation of complex post traumatic stress disorder (CPTSD) and where dissociation may be a feature. We discuss the historical context of the military, the impact of military training and whether dissociation is an adaptive strategy for military personnel, or if it increases the likelihood of later difficulties. We conclude with the treatment implications for working with this client group.
Living with dissociative identity disorder: A client’s and therapist’s perspectives
Authors: Lloyd Mike
Published: January 2023

This article is co-authored by a person (the client) who has been diagnosed with dissociative identity disorder (DID) and a clinical psychologist who treats this condition (the therapist, Mike). The client discusses her experience of growing up with DID before it was formally recognised, the difficulties she has experienced within NHS mental health systems and her progress during therapy. Mike then adds his perspective on the understanding and awareness of DID as well as the method and potential for successful treatment. The client wishes to remain anonymous.
Connecting with dads: The importance of fathers in the lives of their babies
Authors: Fellows Rebecca
Published: January 2023

Understanding the nature and effect of fathers’ involvement on the health and wellbeing of children can help to inform best practice within perinatal and infant mental health services, with the shared aim of improving family psychological and health outcomes.
On addressing ‘Whiteness’ during clinical psychology training
Authors: Wood Nick , Patel Nimisha
Published: January 2023

This abbreviated extract is from a paper on Whiteness in clinical psychology training1. It highlights some of the themes from this paper, related to the issues of representation and addressing racism within clinical psychology training.
Kindness, compassion and love: In defence of positive behavioural support
Authors: Brown Freddy Jackson , Parker Sarah
Published: January 2023

This paper responds to the claim that behavioural science is underpinned by an unreflective positivisim that inevitably leads to poor and/or abusive practice. In fact, the philosophy of modern behavioural science is contextualistic and today its ideas are at the forefront of a range of compassionate, person centred therapies.
The value of mindfulness in secure children’s homes
Authors: A-Kouraishi Sumayah , Pates Richard
Published: January 2023

This article summarises research into mindfulness and the benefits it has for wellbeing. This is evaluated in the context of secure children’s homes (SCHs), drawing upon personal experiences of leading mindfulness sessions to discuss whether mindfulness could be useful in these settings.
The experience of having a psychologist as ‘Responsible Clinician’ on a Forensic Mental Health Ward
Authors: Gray Emma , Tanyongana Barbrah , Cook Andy
Published: January 2023

This paper examines the impact that a multi-professional responsible clinician (MPRC) had on a forensic medium secure ward. Staff, patients and responsible clinicians were given questionnaires and interviewed about their hopes, fears and experiences. Both positives and negatives associated with the MPRC role are identified.
Evaluation of a pilot project to improve transitions to adult services for young people with additional needs
Authors: Rao Kathleen , Coppock Clare
Published: January 2023

Young people with additional needs are often failed during transition to adult services. We evaluate the role of a young people’s transitions practitioner to support young people with intellectual disabilities and/or autism, with concurrent mental health difficulties, to successfully transition.
Strategies which I employ in order to maintain writing productivity
Authors: Wolfensberger Wolf
Published: January 2023

Tell me where are manuscripts bred; or in one’s shower or in one’s head, how begot, how nournished?(Wolf Shakespeare)
Contemplating Corona
Authors: Myers Joanna
Published: January 2023

Recently, during one of my regular ‘once a day’ walks, my mind turned to some of the themes that had emerged from conversations in my clinical practice during the corona ‘lock-down.’ On reflection, it occurred to me that there were some encouraging aspects to the experiences that my clients described as a result of the quarantine and the forced advent of ‘virtual’ therapy. On my return, I felt an urgency to write these down.
Addressing the unmet needs of BAME trainees through a system of mentoring
Authors: Janally Sabinah
Published: January 2023

This article discusses the unmet needs of BAME clinical psychology trainees in the UK. Mentoring is offered as a possible strategy aimed at providing BAME trainees with a safe space to explore their personal and professional identity.
Barriers and improvements to the clinical psychology doctorate selection process
Authors: Bawa Hetashi , Cudmore Kate , Ong Leanna , Knott Katie
Published: January 2023

The Pre-Qualification Group conducted a survey for individuals working in clinical psychology. This article presents the barriers and improvements of the selection process for the clinical psychology doctorate. We hope to highlight this along with Minorities sub-committee projects.
‘Now is not the time for psychology’: A reflection of our experiences as assistant psychologists working on mental health inpatient units during the Covid-19 pandemic
Authors: Nicola Parker , Poppy Harris
Published: January 2023

This article shares the reflections of working as assistant psychologists with older adults on inpatient mental health wards during the Covid-19 pandemic over the past year. We share the key challenges we have been faced with during our experiences.
Starting to address your power and privilege as a clinical psychologist: Reframing the conscious-competence model in order to centre ethics in your practice
Authors: Randall James
Published: January 2023

This paper introduces a critical reframing of the conscious-competence model using a relational understanding of power. Through using this reflective tool, readers consider their participation in powerful dynamics and in doing so, invite opportunities for difference and change.
Riding the storm – what next for clinical psychologists as leaders?
Authors: Roycroft Patrick , Aris Sarajane
Published: January 2023

We start to reflect on what could go right over the next few years if clinical psychologists continue to work with other leaders towards a vision of a more compassionate, inclusive and resilient society.
The relationship between locus of control and experience of depression in a non-clinical sample
Authors: Sumner B Keith
Published: January 2023

The continuing debate about the adequacy of current theoretical conceptions of depression has led to much tension between medical, psychological and psychosocial models. Medical models emphasize biological, causal agents and accordingly treat this 'illness' of chemical imbalances with drugs to restore equilibrium. Electro-Convulsive Therapy (ECT) may also be used. This is little understood and frequently associated with memory disruption (Nairn and Smith, 1984). The main criticisms centre around: their concentration on discrete 'types' of depression {endogenous and reactive); distinctions which may be illegitimate with their assumptions of the roles of genetic and biochemical factors (Storr, 1979); the vagueness and tentative nature of our knowledge of the chemistry of moods; the transience of relief from symptoms; and the scant attention paid to psychological and social factors.
Counselling psychology in Britain: into the future
Authors: Woolfe Ray
Published: January 2023

In the previous edition of this journal, I gave an account of the history behind and details about the Section's application for Special Group status within BPS. Since that time, the Section has received informal comment from a number of areas of the Society, which indicate that we have been too strict in our proposed 'Conditions for Membership' of a Special Group. Accordingly a new set of 'Conditions' has been drawn up by the Executive. These are printed immediately following this article. The application for Special Group status will now be considered formally by Council at its next meeting on 15 October. If it successfully overcomes this hurdle, notice of the proposal together with a statement of the qualifications to be required from members shall be given to all members of the Society, and those who wish to become members of the Special Group if formed will be invited to notify the Council, stating their qualifications. If the Council finds that 100 or more members desire to join the Special Group and are qualified, the proposal that the new Special Group be formed shall be put to the vote at a General Meeting of the Society called for the purpose.
Counselling psychology in transition: will it be reveille or retreat?
Authors: Brammer Lawrence M
Published: January 2023

What do you consider to be the primary issue facing counselling psychology at the moment?

I plan to give you my answer to the question of the primary issue facing counselling psychology, hoping that it stimulates discussion and provokes considered action. Counselling psychology is in another state of transition, this time from a specialization with a distinct identity to something else. Perhaps a better descriptor would be a state of transformation. In any case, I think this transition is, for us, a battle for survival - thus the military metaphor in my title. Is counselling psychology experiencing an awakening reveille or a quiescent retreat?
Book reviews
Authors: Evison Rose
Published: January 2023

Review of Assessment in Action by Jennifer Kidd.
Book Review
Authors: Hawkins Peter
Published: January 2023

Review of Shifting Contexts by Bill O’Hanlon and James Wilk.
Book reviews
Authors: Torpy David
Published: January 2023

Review ofIntegrative Psychotherapy in Actionby Richard G. Erskine and Janet P. Moursund.
Book Review
Authors: Didsbury Pat
Published: January 2023

Review ofOrdinary Ecstasy: Humanistic Psychology in Actionby John Rowan.
Counselling Psychology in Britain: Status and Current Issues
Authors: Shum Jonathan
Published: January 2023

In 1982 at the International Association of Applied Psychology Conference held in Edinburgh, two of the papers were entitled “Counselling Psychology in the 1980s in Britain” (Murgatroyd, 1982) and “Counselling Psychology in the 1980s in the United States” (Strong, 1982). They seem, therefore, to have a familiar ring at this symposium.

In the first paper we read, “though counselling psychology in Britain is in its ‘infancy’ counselling is a growing area for development and action”. The writer also pointed out several positive developments in the UK which included: (i) an expansion of inter-professional involvement in counselling, (ii) the emergence of a new body of theory which had enhanced the eclectic use of counselling skills, and (iii) a growing British counselling literature. These remarks happened to sum up the most visible advances in British counselling psychology in the last six to seven years quite well.
Counselling Psychology USA Patterns of Continuity and Change
Authors: Duffy Michael
Published: January 2023

I should like to begin this portrait of counselling psychology in the United States by conveying the greetings and best wishes of President Leo Goldman. As he indicates in his letter, he is most interested in the outcome of this meeting and indeed at this very time is engaged in discussions in American counselling psychology in Executive Board meetings of Division 17. This is a time of considerable change for American psychologists and counselling psychology, and this conference is a timely opportunity to move forward in ways that wisely capitalize on opportunities while avoiding hazards in our profession. My goal in this talk is lo paint a portrait of American counselling psychology as it has been in the past and of all its current diversity. I felt that this brief overview would be of more use to this group than a more detailed treatment of any given aspect of counselling psychology.
Women’s Issues in Counselling and Psychology
Authors: Wright Pat
Published: January 2023

Over the last decade, there has been an increasing interest in the psychology of women. Historically, the discipline of psychology has been male-defined and male-oriented

Recently, while researching literature in preparation for an article, I became aware of the extent to which female subjects had been excluded, on a variety of grounds, from classic research studies quoted in the reference and introductory books to psychology. During the last decade the situation has changed and knowledge about, and interest in, women by psychologists has increased, and the study of the psychology of women is beginning to obtain scientific respectability. As this process continues, a body of knowledge is gradually beginning to develop that enables us as counselling psychologists to re-examine some of the assumptions and attitudes that we may bring in to the counselling room. Assumptions and values that have reflected the approach to women’s problems by the medical profession and traditional psychoanalytic theories.
Professional Affairs Board Task Force on the Implications of the Changing Trends in Professional PsychologyTask Force Discussion PaperTask Force Discussion PaperTask Force Discussion Paper
Authors: Farrell Bill , Gale Tony , Shapland Joanna , Lindsay Geoff
Published: January 2023

First, timescale. This group was initiated through PAB in June 1989, and representative of the Division of BPS met to plan for the Task Force in October 1989. The Task Force itself first met in April 1990, and the second meeting was held in June 1990. By this time, all the Divisions of the Society (i.e. DECP, SDECP, DCP, OOP and DCLP), both Special Groups (i.e. ourselves and the Special Group of Teachers of Psychology) and the three Boards of the Society (Professional Affairs, Scientific Affairs and Membership and Qualifications) were represented. Two further meetings are planned for 6 October and 30 November 1990. I was asked by the Executive Committee of the Special Group in Counselling Psychology to represent the Special Group, and the June 1990 meeting was the first that I attended. By the time this article appears, the October meeting will have been held, but I would value any comments from Special Group members prior to the meeting on 30 November - my address is in this issue of the Review.
Book Reviews
Authors: Taylor Maye
Published: January 2023

Review ofWomen in Therapy and Counsellingby Moira Walker.
Stress and Counselling Within Organizations: The Role of The Counselling Psychologist
Authors: Woolfe Ray
Published: January 2023

I recently carried out a piece of research in a building society in collaboration with Dr David Lane of the Professional Development Foundation. This was carried out on a consultancy basis, and the nature of the contract with the organization in question means that details contained in the report which was presented to them must remain private. However, it is possible to say something about the research in more general terms, particularly relating to the question of stress within organizations and the role of the counselling psychologist.
Social Issues in the Counselling Process
Authors: Milton Martin
Published: January 2023

This paper is part of a process to explore how, as counsellors and psychotherpists, we should, could, might and do deal with the effects that a variety of social issues may have on us, our clients and the system at large. In this regard I feel that there is a long way to go before being able to do more than explore some options. It is in this spirit that you are invited to read this article.
On Becoming of Equivalence to the Diploma
Authors: Shillito-Clarke Carol
Published: January 2023

The paper in front of me states that my qualifications and experience have been scrutinized by the Board of Examiners and found to be “at least equivalent to those required of someone who holds the Society’s own Diploma in Counselling Psychology”. I have had it a month now and the feelings of pride, excitement and empowerment have not diminished.

Having it doesn’t make me a better practitioner, although in some people’s eyes it will give me greater credibility, no doubt. It certainly doesn’t make me a better person. So why is it so important? I think that it is because it brings together a diverse, even disparate, collection of work, learning and experience, and recognizes them as having a unitary validity and meaning that has hitherto been missing. I have done some writing here and a research project or two there; counselling, teaching and training all over the place. And nowhere a higher degree or Diploma … “Ay, there’s the rub”; the reason why I nearly scrapped my application altogether and why I now need to write this piece.
The Deserted Island Technique
Authors: Palmer Stephen
Published: January 2023

Stress-management practitioners, counsellors and psychotherapists often repeat the words of Epictetus, a Roman philosopher, to their clients to demonstrate the importance of cognitions as a major contributory factor to the cause of stress. Epictetus stated that individuals “are disturbed not by things but by their views of things”.
Tell Them You’re Gay: An Intervention Technique for Homosexuals Suffering from Low Self-Esteem
Authors: Bond Frank W.
Published: January 2023

Researchers at the University of California at Los Angeles recently concluded that the self-esteem of lesbian and gay men was very much affected by their opinions of homosexuals before realizing that they, themselves, were gay. For example, if they grew up in a culture where gays were equated with sin, social scorn and subversion of the societal fabric, these young homosexuals stood a greater chance of developing a low self-esteem upon discovering that they were gay. This result does not bode well for the self-esteem of many homosexuals who grow up in a society which severely denigrates the people they have turned out to be.
“Counselling Psychology”
Authors: Palmer Stephen , Lane David
Published: January 2023

David, can you tell me about your involvement in counselling psychology and the BPS Counselling Section and Special Group in recent years?

Yes, I’ve been involved really for many years but came off the committee at the last meeting. It seemed like the right time to go, particularly as the Diploma is up and running. In a sense the whole process of counselling psychology had become established and recognized within the BPS. For much of the time previously the emphasis was on generating recognition within the BPS, that counselling psychology actually existed. There is now a thing called counselling psychology although the disputes go backwards and forwards both within counselling psychology itself, members of the original Section and the Special Group, between those who do not necessarily feel that counselling psychology as a profession exists.
The Ten Bull Herding Pictures as a Paradigm of Counsellor Training
Authors: Rowan John
Published: January 2023

Is there a reliable series of stages which we go through in our training? I do not mean, of course, a strict linear sequence, but more a set of recognizable way-stations. We may go back and forth among them, repeating one, perhaps, over and over again. But still, one can be distinguished from another in a quite definable way. I believe there is, and I also believe that these stages can be described in words and images. In this case the images are taken from a source which is quite distant in time and space.
Feelings, Actions and Counselling Psychology
Authors: Munt Stephen
Published: January 2023

I want to try to look at the relevance to counselling psychology of the distinction between feeling and expression and to consider the relationship between feeling and action in general. My use of the word "feeling" here is deliberately somewhat imprecise and is intended as a general description for much of what we subjectively experience, rather in the manner suggested recently by John Heron (1992).
Multicultural Counselling Research: An Evaluation with Proposals for Future Research
Authors: Jewel Peter
Published: January 2023

Traditional counselling theories have frequently been criticised for their lack of multicultural relevance, yet even today many UK counsellors assume a prevailing white (and middle class) culture. This summary of research findings in multicultural counselling has had to rely entirely on evidence from the USA, since to my knowledge very little comparable work has been done in this country.

This section gives a brief overview of the current research, emphasizing its lack of agreed findings and the limitations in methodology. It then focuses on three major questions, asking whether counsellor race/ ethnicity, explicit multicultural counsellor education and current research affect the counselling process and outcome.
A Multidimensional Framework of Rapists: Implications for Victim Counselling
Authors: Taylor Lucy , Alladin Waseem
Published: January 2023

Clinical approaches which allocate people to specific clinical categories do disservice to rape victims. A “one size fits all” treatment approach is not suitable, as it may ask the psychologically impossible of many victims (Hanks, 1992). Given that therapists too are influenced by rape myths, it is important to have an empirical basis to our interventions. Taylor (1993) integrated sociological and psychological typologies of rapists (for which there is some empirical evidence) into a multidimensional framework with implications for differential assessment and counselling for victims. Therapists need to recognize the complexity of issues before they can formulate a coherent strategy for counselling rape victims more effectively. In this paper we highlight some of the key issues that need addressing.
Early Experiences As Factors Influencing Occupational Choice in Counselling and Psychotherapy
Authors: Merodoulaki G. Manya
Published: January 2023

Vocational choice can be defined as the process by which an individual comes to follow a certain occupation, to enter a specific field of work. The theme of vocational choice has largely been explored by occupational psychologists and career guidance officers. Various theories have been developed, regarding how the actual choice is made, what process(es) one goes through, and what factors act on the process and influence the final decisions.

Although theories about vocational choice have been put forward from various disciplines, the ones that will be presented here come primarily from the psychology field. These theories deal primarily with aspects within the individual which play a role as motivating forces and/or as part of the process, and include psychodynamic theories and need theories, self theory of occupational choice, and the developmental and the differentialist theories.
The Impact of the Termination of Brief Psychotherapy, and its Implications for Counselling Practice
Authors: Donoghue Kate
Published: January 2023

As a clinical psychology trainee, the ending of my last placement signalled the contractual ending of therapy for many of the clients I had been working with. For some, this phase of treatment appeared to be a non-traumatic, anticipated event. For others however, termination proved to prompt strong feelings of grief, anger and disappointment These reactions highlighted for me the significance of the termination phase in time-limited therapy. The critical issue seemed to be how and when to say goodbye, so that the parting would be constructive and none of the earlier positive gains lost.

This paper sets out to address this issue. Clients’ affective reactions to the termination of brief psychotherapy shall be reviewed. Implications of these findings for practice and further research will then be examined. It is not within the scope of this review, however, to include therapists’ affective reactions to endings nor to evaluate the literature on forced or premature termination.
Theoretical Paper - Counselling psychology and power: Considering therapy and beyond
Authors: Harrison Kate
Published: January 2023

Content & Focus

Power imbalances are present in therapy despite the desire for equality. In this paper I consider explicit and implicit power dynamics between the therapist and the client and look specifically at how power manifests in therapy by considering the therapist’s role as expert, the assumption that all clients want positive growth, the misunderstandings around the relationship between a therapist and their client that can develop, the interventions a therapist makes, the outcome of therapy and the societal forces that impact on a client. I then consider the dynamics outside and inside therapy that can influence power. I discuss how informed consent, awareness of societal forces, compassionate acceptance, metacommunication and therapist self-disclosure can help to empower the client through their therapeutic journey.

Conclusion

I conclude that it is better to be mindful of power in therapy than to assume power imbalances can all be overcome. Furthermore, I argue that counselling psychologists are well placed to maturely negotiate the complexity around such a discourse. I specifically discuss the importance of reflexive practice in counselling psychology and reflect upon the need for practitioners to respond to individual client’s needs and use a flexible transparent pluralistic framework, where one style of therapy is not regarded as suiting every client.
Editorial The power of counselling psychology in an age of powerlessness: A call to action
Authors: Edith Steffen , Hanley Terry
Published: January 2023

Content & Focus

Acting as a preface to the Special Edition on ‘Power and Equality’, this editorial reflects on changes in our society’s relationship with the concept of power and suggests that a sense of (political) powerlessness in the face of inequality and abuse of power is not only affecting society in general but also the discipline of counselling psychology, despite our declared links with critical social science. It posits that a concern with ‘social justice’ may be a way forward but that this can also leave underlying power structures unchallenged. It reminds counselling psychology of the need to be aware of our power, both in a self-critical sense and in the sense of the potentially positive (political) potency of our tools. Following on from these initial con.sideralion.s, the editorial then introduces the initial considerations, the editorial then introduces the individual contributions that form part of this rich and thought-provoking issue.
Research Paper - Power and (in)equality in the UK's Armed Forces: Implications for working with ex-military clients
Authors: Stack Camilla
Published: January 2023

Aims

This study explored British ex-military clients’ experiences of psychological therapy, with a view to informing the practice of those working with this client group, and others from similar set-apart institutions.

Background

This research contributes much-needed qualitative findings to a field dominated by quantitative methods, especially given the recent increase in the numbers of serving and ex-military personnel seeking psychological help.

Methods

Semi-structured interviews were conducted with 10 participants. Narrative analysis was applied to the transcripts.

Findings

Participants identified with the military long after leaving the armed forces. Perceptions of social hierarchy based on previously held rank and status played a significant role in the negotiation of power and control in therapy. Participants felt disempowered by the withholding of information, whereas therapist selfdisclosure and a relational approach facilitated engagement. Therapy was hindered by the experience of a ‘language barrier’ with civilians, both at the level of verbal communication and at the deeper level of cultural misunderstanding. Participants described a sense not only of separateness from civilians, but superiority to them. The strong belief in a military/civilian divide was accompanied by disorientation, alienation and isolation on return to civilian life. This carried into therapy, where fear of misunderstanding and judgment often led to participants omitting their military experiences.

Conclusion

Practitioners working with ex-military clients should gain an understanding of military society and culture and appreciate its lasting influence, particularly in terms of power dynamics. They should be sensitive to significant cultural differences between the military and civilian worlds, and watchful for the concomitant risks of misunderstanding and judgment.
Research Paper - A thematic analytic exploration of how counselling psychologists in the UK experience and position themselves in relation to the NICE guidelines
Authors: Hemsley Christine
Published: January 2023

Background

Collective professional identity is dynamic and responsive to the context within which it exists. Thus the current climate of a pervasive medical model as experienced through the imposition of National Institute for Health and Clinical Excellence (NICE) guidelines (2004) and associated Increased Access to Psychological Therapies is relevant to the profession of counselling psychology. Therefore, the possible professional position and the lived experience of its members, whilst existing in a professional arena that requires professionals to fulfil pre-determined criteria, is of interest to this paper.

Methodology

A qualitative design explored the declared position and related experiences of counselling psychologists. Semi-structured interviews were conducted with nine qualified professionals and transcripts subjected to thematic analysis.

Findings

Three key themes relevant to the declared position and associated individual experience were discerned in the data, namely: NICE experienced as relevant and affecting counselling psychology; counselling psychology declaring a pluralistic identity in relation to NICE guidelines; and client as focus.

Conclusion

Participants described a desire to engage with the NICE guidelines, and pluralism seemed to offer them a valid voice with which to achieve this. Pluralism also functioned to offer greater professional jurisdiction and potential autonomy. Pluralism whilst positive in many ways did also produce professional anxiety for many as they struggled with finding their identity within it. Overall, the proclaimed identity appeared to show a dynamically responsive profession that may influence the psychological arena.
Theoretical Paper: The body, the book and the organisation: Towards a post-structuralist understanding of anorexia nervosa and its treatment in a clinical setting
Authors: Spedding Sam O.C. , Milton Martin
Published: January 2023

Content and Focus

A brief post-structuralist analysis of recent changes to the criteria for anorexia nervosa in the DSM-5 is presented. These changes are examined in the context of the political and social forces described in existing literature. The main idea that emerges from the analysis is that the creation of diagnostic criteria is a value-driven practice which, in the case of anorexia nervosa, encourages a somatic and controlling clinical approach. A clinical example is then used to illustrate how social and therapeutic discourses might affect therapists and clients in an inpatient setting. A tentative formulation of how post-structuralist theory can be applied in a way which considers how therapist and client are positioned by discourses is also advanced.

Conclusion

In the context of the changing diagnostic criteria for anorexia nervosa, it is concluded that poststructuralist theory can be applied usefully for therapists and clients in inpatient settings. This necessitates a degree of reflexive practice which may suit counselling psychologists well. Such an application may also fit in with and improve understanding of existing therapeutic approaches rather than simply deconstructing them.
Dialogues and Debates: Counselling psychology and the future
Authors: O’Hara Denis
Published: January 2023

In this edition we hear from a number of commentators on the current state and possible future direction of counselling psychology not just in Britain but in other parts of the world as well.