bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Psychopathology and the conceptualisation of mental disorder: The debate around the inclusion of Parental Alienation in DSM-5
Authors: Whitcombe Sue
Published: January 2023

Content and Focus

This paper will briefly consider the general conceptualisation of mental disorder before focusing on the specific case of Parental Alienation (PA), variously termed a disorder or a syndrome. By virtue of the recent debate surrounding its potential inclusion in the newest edition of the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-5), this is a topical example. A critical analysis of the petition for its inclusion within DSM-5 will both highlight the range of professionals’ views, and also consider ethical and practical issues inherent in the conceptualisation of a mental disorder and its classification within the evolving DSM. Following this general and specific conceptualisation of mental disorder, the tensions that diagnosis raises for counselling psychology will be briefly deliberated. The positive aspects of classification and diagnosis will be acknowledged, whilst highlighting the focus on the subjective experience of individual clients.

Conclusions

Despite the controversy about the concept, validity and reliability of PA, the evidence suggests that there is more agreement than disagreement among practitioners and professionals in the field. Whilst there is a general consensus that alienation exists within a distinct population who would benefit from intervention, there is no consensus on its inclusion in DSM-5. Irrespective of its inclusion in any nosology, the recent debate has highlighted the need for further research. A greater understanding of the processes, symptoms and behaviours involved in PA will enable the needs of children and families involved in high-conflict separation to be better addressed.
Dialogues and Debates:Counselling psychology in the UK: A 30-year passage
Authors: James Pamela E.
Published: January 2023

Content and Focus

Counselling psychology’s 30-year passage in the UK, its origins and philosophy, open a reflective article that also considers training, research and practice. Academic and reflective practitioner’s roles grounded in human science often work in contexts where natural science predominates. The effects of the influence of recent economic and political changes are considered; this discipline’s responses to these effects are outlined. This article is a summary of an invited address given in Melbourne, Australia, in February, 2013.

Conclusions

The sharing of the philosophy, practice, research and training of counselling psychologists across countries in an increasingly aware international climate will have advantages for the discipline; however, the fuller benefits remain to be explored.
Dialogues and Debates: Where will counselling psychology be in the next 30 years? From a Conference to the Premiership
Authors: Fairfax Hamilton
Published: January 2023

Content and Focus

Acknowledging the recent 30th anniversary for counselling psychology, this article considers how the profession could develop in future. In particular it suggests how counselling psychology could influence mental health provision in the new commissioning environment and calls for an active and positive engagement based on our core values. This requires the Division and counselling psychologists themselves to be more assertive and self promoting, building on the successes of the past to help determine and influence the future. Three main strategies are suggested: counselling psychology as the champions of practicebased evidence; promoting phenomenological-based intervention; and identifying counselling psychology as the most suitable provider for co-morbid and secondary care (Step 4) clients.

Conclusion

The growth and achievements of the profession over the last three decades underlies the sentiment that counselling psychology has more than come of age. In contrast, however, its presence in the consciousness of commissioners and the general public is unreliable. Developments in mental health strategies such as the Recovery Model and the uncertainty of service provision at post-IAPT or secondary care, create a climate for counselling psychology to offer solutions. Far from being mainly a competing narrative within the rarefied communities of psychology and the wider psychotherapeutic professions, counselling psychology has the muscle to make decisive contributions at a national policy making level. This can only happen if there is a sense of united purpose and concerted effort at the structural and individual level. The suggestions made in this article are only some of many other ways this could occur, but it is important to recognise that asserting the profession’s value is not egotistical and without a programme of self-promotion counselling psychology risks marginalisation.
Dialogues and Debates Dipping your toe outside your comfort zone: The benefits to trainees of attending Conference
Authors: Whitcombe Sue
Published: January 2023

In my own modest way I have been trying to espouse the benefits of attending conferences to my peers at Teesside University for the past year. following this year’s DCoP Annual Conference, I feel obligated to seek out a megaphone – to reach a wider audience. I want to convey the benefits that I, a second-year trainee, have gained from dipping my toe a little outside my comfort zone.
Research Paper Psychological treatments for eating disorders: What is the importance of the quality of the therapeutic alliance for outcomes?
Authors: Antoniou Pavlina , Cooper Mick
Published: January 2023

Background

Research data suggests that eating disorders symptomatology is determined by the individual’s unique combination of biological and psychological factors, in relation to their familial and social backgrounds (Brumberg, 2000). This means that different clients may benefit from different psychological interventions (Lock et al., 2010).

Purpose

This systematic review investigates the significance of the quality of the therapeutic alliance for the effectiveness of psychological treatments with eating disorders.

Method

A review of electronic databases was conducted against pre-determined exclusion and inclusion criteria, with applicable studies been abstracted using the PRISMA four-phase flow diagram (Moher et al., 2009). Nine quantitative and two qualitative studies which were published prior to June 2012 were included, and their data are critically considered and analysed.

Findings

The quality of the therapeutic alliance is significantly associated with the success of treatment outcome for anorexia nervosa, although its importance remains unclear for bulimic individuals.

Discussion

Possible reasons behind the ambiguity of the results are discussed, and alternative contributors to successful treatment outcomes are incorporated.

Conclusion

Notwithstanding the fact that this systematic review encountered a number of limitations, the findings could inform practice as well as form the basis for additional research in the field of eating disorders.
Research Paper Where do counselling psychologists based in the UK disseminate their research? A systematic review
Authors: Gordon Ruth , Hanley Terry
Published: January 2023

Aim

Research is frequently cited as core to counselling psychology. Yet we know little about where counselling psychologists publish their own findings. The present study aims to answer the following two research questions: (1) Where do UK-based counselling psychologists disseminate their research? (2) To what extent do counselling psychologists disseminate their research in British Psychological Society outlets?

Method

A systematic review examining research by UK-based counselling psychologists published in journals directly relevant to counselling psychology between January 2010 and December 2012. Counselling psychologists’ individual publication lists were examined for research disseminated in additional specialist journals. Finally, two case studies of research active counselling psychologists were completed to gain a qualitative picture of counselling psychology dissemination.

Results

The review elicited 43 research articles by UK-based counselling psychologists in the last three years. Publication lists uncovered a further 24 research studies from specialist journals, making a total of 67 studies, completed by 40 counselling psychologists. The majority of articles were in Counselling and Psychotherapy ResearchandCounselling Psychology Review. The case studies both demonstrated the importance of overall attitudes towards research to dissemination.

Conclusion

Although the aim of the present study was to gain a picture of where counselling psychology research is disseminated, the limited volume of research seems to lead inevitably back to the debate on what the future of research in counselling psychology should look like, with mixed views on its importance for the field.
Theoretical Paper Sexuality: Where existential thought and counselling psychology practice come together
Authors: Milton Martin
Published: January 2023

Content & Focus: Counselling psychology takes a contextualised perspective to people, and so this paper outlines some of the issues that impact on popular understandings of sexuality, in everyday terms and also in terms of psychological impact. The terrain of sexuality is very broad, so this paper uses same-sex sexuality, and our assumptions about it, as its predominant focus. The second half of the paper considers the way in which existential phenomenological perspectives can enhance our understandings of sexuality and provide counselling psychologists with useful insights.

Conclusion: The frameworks of both existential psychology and counselling psychology overlap and, when considered together, offer useful ways of understanding social and therapeutic issues.
Editorial A moment to pause and reflect on the significance of the existential paradigm for counselling psychology
Authors: Steffen Edith , Hanley Terry
Published: January 2023

Content & Focus: In introducing this Special Edition on Existential Approaches and Issues in Counselling Psychology this Editorial invites readers to pause and reflect on the significance of the existential paradigm for counselling psychology. Starting with a reflection on heightened existential awareness during a moment of perceived significance and purpose, the Editorial explores different contributions the existential paradigm has made to counselling psychology, particularly in the UK, where the British school of existential psychotherapy has had a major influence on the profession. It briefly describes the idea of ‘existential sensibility’ as a trans-theoretical attitude that can be applied across different therapeutic contexts and models and notes the impact phenomenological research methodologies have had on the discipline. Finally, it considers the increased presence of a stand-alone existential orientation for counselling psychologists and invites readers to continue fruitful dialogues between the existential paradigm and the discipline of counselling psychology overall, both in a UK context and on an international scale.
Theoretical Paper The palpable in existential counselling psychology
Authors: Madison Greg
Published: January 2023

Content & Focus: This article presents basic features of an approach to existential counselling psychology that emphasises the experiential source of existential practice. It is an experiential-existential model of psychological therapy that arises from the application of Eugene Gendlin’s philosophy of implicit process to the therapeutic encounter as described by the British school of existential analysis. This paper introduces some principal contributions from Gendlin’s philosophical thought, including the practice of Focusing, illustrating why sensitive attention to bodily experiencing is important for counselling psychologists interested in ‘existentialising’ their approach to client work. Using fictionalised case material, it is shown how working experientially avoids generalities and instead sensitises the clinician to the uniqueness unfolding from within each client.

Conclusions: Palpable existentialism is a body-therapy integration with existential and experiential emphases. It brings moment-to-moment experiencing into the ‘evidence-base’ of what is working or not during the session. With a rich research and philosophical foundation, this approach brings existentialism in line with a recent resurgence in body approaches to counselling psychology. More research and conceptualising needs to happen around this promising new approach.
Theoretical Paper Human development and existential counselling psychology
Authors: Adams Martin
Published: January 2023

Content & Focus: This paper argues for the coherence of an existential approach to human development with the principles of counselling psychology. It first reviews the points of contact between existentialism and counselling psychology and then briefly reviews current approaches to human development and compares them epistemologically. Following this, the principles of an existential theory are reviewed. Then some examples from the phenomenological and existential literature are reviewed and conclusions drawn about the implications for theories of human development. Finally, some guidelines for existential counselling psychology practice are given.
Invited Paper An existential challenge to some dominant perspectives in the practice of contemporary counselling psychology
Authors: Spinelli Ernesto
Published: January 2023

Content & Focus: This paper aims to explore a number of key challenges raised by existential theory to the dominant assumptions, aims and practices within contemporary counselling psychology. It argues that the existential focus on relatedness significantly alters counselling psychology’s understanding of, and ways of perceiving individuals as well as the concerns that are brought to the therapeutic encounter.
The importance of incorporating neuroscientific knowledge into counselling psychology: An introduction to affective neuroscience
Authors: Goss David
Published: January 2023

Content & Focus

Neuroscience as a whole has seen great advancements over the last couple of decades and as such, it is becoming an increasingly important and relevant knowledgebase for counselling psychologists to incorporate into their research and practice. Affective neuroscience focuses on the emotions and affect which are both produced and perceived by the brain and mind. Jaak Panksepp, a prominent figure within affective neuroscience, has suggested that one avenue which is ripe for advancement is the development of primary process understanding. This paper discusses primary brain processes as well outlining a number of introductory ways in which affective neuroscience could contribute to counselling psychology.

Conclusions

It is suggested that counselling psychologists are well placed to contribute to affective neuroscience research. Additionally, psychiatry is well placed to benefit and add to the body of knowledge within affective neuroscience therefore the present work proposes that the time is now for greater collaboration between counselling psychologists, psychiatrists and (affective) neuroscientists, contributing and working together with the aim of increasing understanding and the effectiveness of therapeutic interventions for our species’ mental health and development.
Theoretical Paper Counselling Psychology: A view from Australia
Authors: Meteyard John , O'Hara Denis
Published: January 2023

This paper outlines the origins, developments, and current state of play of counselling psychology in Australia. The relative strength of the early and middle developmental stages of the professions are contrasted with the current decline largely brought about by the Medicare system. The constraints on future development of the field are examined and the importance of revisiting its philosophical base is discussed alongside the need to vitalise its research culture and publications. The paper concludes with a number of recommendations for strengthening counselling psychology in Australia and a reassertion of the value of counselling psychology for the Australian and international community.
Theoretical Paper The growing international perspectives within the Society of Counseling Psychology in the United States
Authors: Wang Chiachih D.C , Heppner Puncky P
Published: January 2023

Content & Focus

A notable number of actions and programmes have taken place to internationalise the US counselling psychology profession. This article expands the previous work by examining the growing international perspectives within the Society of Counseling Psychology (SCP), specifically those associated with recent presidential initiatives and leadership, structural organisational change within the Division, and scholarly publications in the Division’s journal, The Counseling Psychologist. In addition, we discuss a few cross-cultural training initiatives as one way forward for the SCP to continue promoting the development of international perspectives in counselling psychology in the US.
Theoretical Paper Research into post-traumatic growth in therapists: A critical literature review
Authors: Bartoskova Lucie
Published: January 2023

Content & Focus

This critical literature review considers the effects which trauma work can have on therapists. Empirical literature relating to the current research into trauma therapists’ post-traumatic growth is reviewed. Its starting point is the context of previous research of what trauma work involves, the effects it can have on therapists and the challenges associated with it. It stresses that, for several decades, the majority of the research carried out in this field has been concerned with the negative outcomes and changes trauma therapists experience. The challenges associated with post-traumatic growth and trauma work are highlighted, along with factors enabling post-traumatic growth in trauma therapists (e.g. empathy, sense of coherence and social support). The aim of this review is to raise awareness about potential personal growth based on trauma work and the factors that enable therapists’ growth.

Conclusion

Post-traumatic growth in trauma therapists is proposed as a highly promising feature for counselling psychologists, with a need to move away from the stereotype of purely negative outcomes being associated with trauma work.
Research Paper An interpretative phenomenological analysis into counselling psychologists' relationship with research: Motives, facilitators and barriers -a contextual perspective
Authors: Skourteli Marina C. , Apostolopoulou Angelika
Published: January 2023

Background/Aims

The apparent tensions between the scientist-practitioner and the reflective-practitioner aspects of counselling psychology identity may underpin counselling psychologists’ relationship with research. This issue becomes vital at a time when research activity can assist survivability within a competitive context and the promotion of Counselling Psychology as a distinct professional discipline. The present study explores counselling psychologists’ subjective experience of research and their perceptions of what may motivate, facilitate or hinder their engagement with it, whilst considering the context within which research activity takes place.

Methodology

The present paper presents the second, qualitative part of a larger mixed-methods research project investigating the relationship of chartered counselling psychologists with research. Data was collected through individual, semi-structured interviews with four chartered counselling psychologists (two residing and practicing in Greece and two residing and practicing in the UK), and was analysed using Interpretative Phenomenological Analysis (IPA).

Findings

Three superordinate themes emerged from the data: ‘Stance/attitudes towards research’; ‘Research activity and inactivity’; and ‘Contextual dimensions of research’. A discussion of the subthemes revealed the role of ambivalence, counselling psychology identity and the interplay between internal and contextual factors in determining counselling psychologists’ involvement with research post-qualification.

Discussion

A number of implications and recommendations for training institutions, professional organisations and the British Psychological Society are presented that could help promote the development and implementation of research-friendly environments within the field of counselling psychology, in order to enhance counselling psychologists’ relationship and engagement with research in the long term.
Being with uncertainty: A reflective account of a personal relationship with an asylum seeker/refugee
Authors: Morrison David T.
Published: January 2023

Background

Violent political instability in countries such as Syria has seen the worldwide number of forcibly displaced people rise to levels not seen since World War 2, with over 150,000 asylum seekers and refugees hosted in the UK alone (UNHCR, 2015). Despite this figure, many UK residents have only a limited understanding of the experience of seeking asylum.

Content & Focus

This article features a reflective account of the author’s experience of being in a relationship with an asylum seeker/refugee in the UK. It begins with the author’s reflections on the harsh asylum process and encourages those of us with a right to remain in the UK to consider how we would cope in such circumstances. Opportunities for personal and professional development that have arisen from the relationship are outlined, with particular emphasis on the experience of uncertainty and powerlessness. Finally, indignation at the inequalities faced by asylum seekers and refugees is presented as a catalyst for the development of a social justice agenda both within and beyond the therapy room.

Conclusion

Being in a romantic relationship with an asylum seeker/refugee offers a unique vantage point to learn about the asylum process in depth. Furthermore, even such overtly challenging experiences can be transformed into opportunities for personal and professional growth, including the development of a social justice agenda in our counselling psychology practice.
Somali male refugees: Perceptions of depression and help-seeking
Authors: Rae Sophie
Published: January 2023

Content & Focus

The UK Somali community has been identified as a cultural group who rarely access psychological services, despite high rates of mental health diagnoses such as depression. In particular, Somali men are said to be at increased risk of suicide and frequently present in tertiary care. The purpose of the current study was to explore how Somali male refugees in the UK understand and perceive the Western concept of depression, alongside their views on coping and professional help in the UK.

Method

A constructivist grounded theory approach involved the use of twelve Somali male refugees in the community. They were interviewed with the aid of a vignette across three focus groups, with eight who participated in subsequent semi-structured interviews.

Findings

‘Depression’ appeared to be a result of the difficulties associated with migration, portrayed as an overall ‘sense of disconnection’. The ‘health’ of the community appeared to link to the ‘health’ of the individual, highlighting the collectivist appraisals of self-worth. Help-seeking from Western professionals was portrayed as rare. Health professionals were conceptualised as lacking awareness of the needs of the Somali community in relation to their difficulties.

Conclusion

These findings highlight the importance of taking into account social and contextual factors making decisions about depression as a diagnosis and subsequent treatment.
The individualism impasse in counselling psychology
Authors: Vermes Caroline
Published: January 2023

Context and focus

This paper argues that counselling psychology has been shaped by the philosophical and cultural value of individualism. Counselling psychology’s reliance on individual therapy models hinders its potential to actively address social issues that cause or exacerbate many mental health problems. The history and role of UK state-funded individual therapy markets, which employ a significant proportion of counselling psychologists, is examined. Some origins and consequences of counselling psychology’s individualistic ideals are explored. The professionalisation of personal therapy in the UK is traced to the USA and the development of humanistic psychology in the mid-20th century. Humanistic ideals are traced back further, to the 18th and 19th century rhetoric of New World democracy. Some undesirable social consequences of individualism are highlighted. In comparison the paper looks at potentially ‘post-individualistic’ therapeutic philosophies, including feminist and social constructionist approaches but finds that, in practice, they also tend to operate as individual therapy models.

Conclusions

Individual therapy approaches help people cope with conditions arising from the socioeconomic status quo, but don’t necessarily challenge it. Evolving counselling psychology research and practice into more demonstrably socially transformative ways of working would require substantive, and probably unpopular, changes in training, regulation, career pathways and professional identity.
Therapists’ experience of the therapeutic relationship when working with adults adopted as infants
Authors: Vote Birgit , Kasket Elaine
Published: January 2023

Context & Focus

Early experiences can have an influence on the adult’s ability to form trusting relationships with others, this can include therapists. Currently, there is a lack of empirical and theoretical understanding of the complexities of the therapeutic relationship when working with adults who were adopted. This study sought to understand the nature of this therapeutic relationship as experienced by therapists.

Methodology

Six homogenous adoption-counsellor participants were purposively sampled; semi-structured interviews were conducted and analysed using Interpretative Phenomenological Analysis (IPA). This enabled detailed exploration of the experience of adoption counsellors currently working with adult adoptees.

Findings

Analysis produced three master themes: An awareness of the early rejection in all stages of the therapeutic process; a personal commitment to provide a corrective emotional experience; and the psychological consequences of working with adult adopted clients for therapists. The analysis emphasised the challenges that participants perceived in terms of establishing, maintaining and ending the therapeutic relationship with adopted adults.

Discussion

The findings of this study extend the pre-existing research base by emphasising the interconnectedness of the personal and professional experiences of adoption counsellors and the need for flexibility in their practice in each phase of the therapeutic process, predominantly with regard to therapeutic boundaries and engaging in a different ending experience. The study highlights practical implications, particularly the importance of familiarisation with certain aspects of adoption due to their likely influence on the therapeutic relationship, and the need for reflective practice.
The impact of in-session weighing in eating disorder services on the therapeutic relationship: A flexible, transparent and reflective approach
Authors: Whiteley Charlotte
Published: January 2023

Background

Enhanced cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT-E) is the most widely researched therapeutic modality recommended by the National Institute of Clinical Excellence (NICE) guidelines for the treatment of eating disorders. According to CBT-E, in-session weighing, that is, weighing the client each week during therapy sessions, should be a ‘non-negotiable’ therapeutic intervention. Despite research supporting CBT-E, there is no research that supports in-session weighing as a ‘non-negotiable’ aspect of therapy. Furthermore, CBT-E posits that behavioural change precedes the therapeutic relationship, which is problematic for counselling psychologists who posit that an empathic, safe and trusting therapeutic relationship are key ingredients to therapeutic change. This paper critically reviews the ways in which ‘in-session weighing’ can impact on the therapeutic relationship.

Method

Searches were made for literature pertaining to in-session weighing; protocolled treatment for eating disorders; ethics in eating disorder treatment and the impact of non-negotiable therapeutic interventions on patients with an eating disorder diagnosis. Qualitative, quantitative and theoretical papers were included in the review.

Findings

Based on the literature, this paper argues that in-session weighing, if carried out in an entirely protocolled-driven way, risks overlooking the therapeutic relationship and the individual differences of the clients we meet. However, the paper suggests that CBT-E can be synthesised with counselling psychology’s relational ethos by adopting a flexible, transparent and reflective use of in-session weighing.

Discussion

Such an approach takes into account the clinician’s own values and biases, the context of the client, the presenting difficulties and the clinic setting. Such an approach lends itself to the holistic underpinning of counselling psychology.
A journey through the ‘rational mind’ and the ‘paradoxical logic of the unconscious’: Implications for treatment guidelines
Authors: Cucchi Angie
Published: January 2023

Current political and economic trends in psychology push for an evidence-based practice whereby interventions are chosen on the basis of relevant research findings. Although valuable and effective, the efficacy and the ecological validity of evidence-based interventions has often been questioned, as it can be argued that human beings are too complex presentations to be captured by the restraints of clinical trials only. In addition, the dangers of pressurising psychology services to strictly adhere to manualised guidelines means that specialist’s skills might be obscured. This paper and the case-study presented in it position itself in the midst of this debate by highlighting how clinical intuition and idiosyncratic formulations can be integrated and enrich research based practice. In addition, this paper also highlights how these fluid specialist skills are crucial to the vitality of the field and to the identity of counselling psychologists. This urge for a wider definition of what constitutes ‘evidence base’ when working with such complex presentations as human beings.
Post-traumatic stress disorder in Alzheimer’s disease
Authors: Delrue Nicolas , Plagnol Arnaud
Published: January 2023

Purpose

This article aims to analyse the links between Alzheimer’s disease (AD) and Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) and to assess the feasibility of treating PTSD in AD.

Methods

We review the literature around the links between PTSD and AD, consider this within several theoretical models. We propose the hypothesis that the treatment of PTSD in AD can improve episodic memory with some positive effects on AD. We present a pilot study in order to confirm the likely benefits of such an approach. There were 10 participants for the target group (AD and PTSD) and 10 participants in the control group (AD without PTSD). During two sessions separated by an interval of six months, different components of episodic memory were assessed with specific tests. AD evolution was assessed with the Mini-Mental State Examination (MMSE). For the target group, PTSD presence and quality of life were also assessed, and treatment for PTSD was undertaken between the two sessions.

Results/Findings

The analysis of scientific literature highlighted some clinical, cognitive and neurobiological similarities between AD and PTSD. The key-role of episodic memory is evident. The results of the pilot study suggest that PTSD treatment in AD participants improves all assessed indicators: word recall, word recognition, immediate recall, delayed recall, personal recent events recall, personal lifetime events recall, global cognitive abilities (MMSE) and quality of life.

Discussion/conclusion

There are strong theoretical and practical reasons to search for an effective intervention for PTSD in AD patients. These preliminary results need to be confirmed but already suggest a promising avenue for therapeutic care of AD patients with trauma due to unknown or unsolved factors.
‘That hour served me better than any hour I have ever had before’: Service users’ experiences of CBTp in first episode psychosis
Authors: Mankiewicz Pawel D. , O’Leary John , Collier Olivia
Published: January 2023

Objectives:

Despite an emerging number of studies investigating service users’ experiences of receiving cognitive behavioural therapy for psychosis (CBTp), no studies to date have focused on individuals with first episode psychosis (FEP). Available research in FEP indicates that young people may delay seeking professional help due to having negative expectations of therapy and upholding unhelpful attitudes toward such treatment, which delays uptake to early intervention in psychosis (EIP) services in the NHS. The present study attempts to address the apparent gap in existing knowledge and explores expectations and experiences of receiving CBTp among EIP clients with FEP.

Method:

Semi-structured qualitative interviews were conducted with nine participants with FEP who had received CBTp in a London-based EIP. Researchers had the flexibility to focus on the identified areas of service user experience and explored their reflections on the received therapy. Questions related to prior expectations and the actual experience of participating in such therapeutic treatment.

Results:

Interviews were analysed using thematic analysis. Four major themes emerged, including: service user’s prior expectations; therapeutic alliance; challenges of CBTp; and application of CBTp to achieve change.

Conclusions:

Although some negative assumptions preceded the commencement of therapy, optimistic expectations were also voiced. Overall, participants reported largely positive experiences of receiving CBTp in relation to both the process of treatment and qualities demonstrated by their therapists, despite experiencing some challenges related to achieving change. Central importance of functional therapeutic alliance in CBTp was indicated, based on which major therapeutic gains were achieved, even in spite of, at times, pre-existing worrisome expectations.
The impact of expanding the self on the ability to work at relational depth
Authors: Adamczyk Katarzyna S.
Published: January 2023

Aim:

Working at relational depth is considered to be one of the pillars of an effective intervention within person-centred approach. So far, the literature has been mainly focused on the description of the phenomenon. However, there has been little evidence explaining how the therapists can enhance their ability to work at depth. This paper seeks to add to a growing body of literature on the factors that can contribute to the development of the therapist’s ability to work at relational depth.

Method and Analysis:

The case study is based on a systematic analysis of the therapy sessions’ recordings, the client and supervision notes, and the researcher’s reflective diary. The analysis was aimed to track down the development process of relational depth. This was achieved by identifying critical incidents from the therapy sessions and matching these with the incidents from the therapist’s personal therapy and supervision.

Findings:

The findings from this case study suggest that the therapist’s ability to work at relational depth can be developed through the expansion of the therapist’s self. The more parts of the self the therapist is able to employ during a therapeutic encounter, the greater the potential they have of being able to work at relational depth with their clients.

Discussion:

The results point to the crucial role of the therapist’s growing self-awareness (expansion of self) and self-acceptance in the development of their ability to work at relational depth. The theory of configurations of self and accurate symbolisation is used to discuss these findings.
From enrolment to qualification
Authors: James Pam , Galbraith Victoria
Published: January 2023

The current Chair of the QCoP Board and the Registrar reflect on the history and development of the Qualification in Counselling Psychology. The content and structure of the new Revised Qualification which was launched in April 2018 (with its fee reduced) is described. Some of the advantages and challenges of this mode of study are discussed.
On leadership and counselling psychology
Authors: Hall Amanda
Published: January 2023

To be with another in this [empathic] way means that for the time being, you lay aside your own views and values in order to enter another’s world without prejudice. In some sense it means that you lay aside your self; this can only be done by persons who are secure enough in themselves that they know they will not get lost in what may turn out to be the strange or bizarre world of the other, and that they can comfortably return to their own world when they wish. Perhaps this description makes clear that being empathic is a complex, demanding, and strong – yet subtle and gentle -–way of being. Rogers (1980) A Way of Being.
Preparing for a conference, doctoral or professional presentation
Authors: Tribe Rachel , Marshall Claire
Published: January 2023

At some stage of their career development, doctoral candidates, qualified psychologists and other professionals are called upon to make formal presentations at conferences or in work or clinical contexts. For many people, public speaking can be anxiety provoking. Thorough preparation and forethought can help manage anxiety so the speaker can feel empowered to develop confidence, new experiences and skills. A successful presentation on research findings, systemic or clinical issues, or innovative recommendations for service provision can have a significant impact for service users, other psychologists, professional organisations, policy makers or commissioners, who all potentially stand to benefit. Giving a presentation can also have various professional advantages, including creating opportunities for collaborations, networking, developing new ideas, the raising of a professional or organizational profile and even potential employability opportunities.

This paper will discuss strategies to help the potential presenter ensure they meet designated or pre-set requirements, hone skills, convey the intended message and optimise professional opportunities. This paper will focus on: being clear about the aim of presenting; the importance of a dissemination strategy; selecting the most appropriate context to deliver your presentation; preparing an abstract or presentation summary; explanations and recommendations on how to deliver a successful presentation (be that poster presentation, individual presentation, symposium, or workshop); the presentation delivery; answering questions from the audience; and maximising the associated opportunities.
An interpretative phenomenological analysis of mothers’ negative experiences and emotions during early motherhood
Authors: Collins Sharon
Published: January 2023

Contemporary ideologies surrounding motherhood do not appear to reflect the experiences of many women. Motherhood is often idealised as a joyful experience, however a large proportion of women experience psychological distress, often receiving a diagnosis of postnatal depression. Current psychiatric systems may not adequately represent mothers’ experiences or reflect the range and complexity of emotions experienced. Most psychological research explores mothers’ emotions through the lens of a medical model, with a focus on depression; the exploration of emotions beyond depression has been under-researched. This study explored the range of emotions mothers experience during early motherhood. Semi-structured interviews were conducted with six women who experienced post-natal distress; data were analysed using Interpretative Phenomenological Analysis (IPA). Results showed a conflict between the mothers’ aspired and idyllic representations of motherhood and their lived experiences; three themes were identified: when idyllic notions of motherhood are not realised; when motherhood is not instinctive; and when prioritising childcare is not easy. Mothers who were unable to live up to the identified notions of motherhood, experienced emotional distress, from resentment and guilt, to feeling broken and insecure. The amalgamation of emotions experienced created a complex emotional landscape they had to negotiate, and their experiences were not represented in the psychiatric categorical systems; they did not identify with having postnatal depression and were left unsupported. This study explored ways counselling psychologists could offer support to this sub-clinical group and viewing their experiences as a normal response to motherhood as opposed to pathologising them.
Using Appreciative Inquiry to facilitate organisational change and develop professional practice within an Educational Psychology Service
Authors: Doggett Caroline , Lewis Anna
Published: January 2023

Appreciative Inquiry (AI) is a strengths-based, organisational change model (Cooperrider et al., 2008). The primary aim of this project was to explore the potential of AI as a means of developing professional practice in the context of a local authority (LA) educational psychology service (EPS). AI is a type of participative action research (PAR) rooted in social constructionist epistemology. The 4-D AI cycle (Discovery, Dream, Design and Destiny) was undertaken over the course of 16 months. Educational Psychologists’ (EPs) reflections on their AI experience were collated via self-report questionnaires. Positive outcomes of AI were evident from EPs’ responses, most especially in terms of: developing personal and collective practice; enabling effective communication with managers; strengthening relationships between colleagues; and enhancing feelings of agency and control. Limiting factors related to the timing of, and time for AI, within the context of LA budget cuts and potential job insecurity. Critical reflections on the AI process and suggestions for future applications of AI are discussed.
Listening to the voices of young carers using Interpretative Phenomenological Analysis and a strengths-based perspective
Authors: Doutre Georgina , Green Rob , Knight-Elliott Anne
Published: January 2023

The 2011 census suggested that 244,000 young people in England and Wales under 19 provide unpaid care for someone with an illness or disability (Office for National Statistics, 2013). Young carers are not a homogeneous population; they represent children and young people from a variety of backgrounds with diverse experiences. Young carers are described as a ‘hidden population’ (H.M Government, 2010) hence the prevalence of young carers may be larger than data sources reveal. Previous research has identified negative aspects of caregiving and the impact on education, social, emotional, physical health and wellbeing. Young carers seem to be a vulnerable group and marginalised population, yet there is little reference to young carers in educational psychology literature. This research sought to listen to the voices of this hidden population from a strengths-based perspective to consider if this adds to our understanding of their resilience. The research adopted an inductive constructionist approach using Interpretative Phenomenological Analysis (IPA). Six participants aged between 11 and 13 years were recruited from a large rural Young Carers Project to attend three separate interviews. Participants were caring for a parent with a mental illness. Findings illustrated these young carers had very individual and complex lives, full of tensions, yet they found ways of managing and adapting to their situations. Implications for raising the profile of individuals with complex lives are discussed and consideration given to a sensitive, individualised and flexible response.
Children as researchers: An Appreciative Inquiry with primary-aged children to improve ‘Talking and Listening’ activities in their class
Authors: Davies Oonagh , Lewis Anna
Published: January 2023

Appreciative Inquiry (AI) is a process that strives to create a better future by inquiring into, identifying and further developing the best of an organisation (Coghlan et al., 2003). As part of the authors’ systemic work in schools, AI was used as a framework for children to investigate how ‘talking and listening’ in a primary mixed Year 2 and 3 class could be improved. Whilst the broad focus of ‘talking and listening’ was donated by the teacher, this pilot project involved the children, class teacher, teaching assistant (TA) and educational psychologists collaborating in a genuine inquiry regarding the children’s best experiences of talking and listening. The goal was to develop the children’s ideas and ‘dreams’ into new ways of functioning in the classroom. Participants gave feedback regarding the AI process generally, and how they could improve ‘talking and listening’ specifically.
Educational Psychologists as advocates of children in out of home care: An innovative program model that empowers young people and the adults who support them
Authors: Mainwaring Debra
Published: January 2023

Life Without Barriers, a specialist foster care agency, are funding a Collaborative Education Program in partnership with Edmund Rice Education Australia Youth +. This paper aims to share some of the practice that gives a voice to the children and young people who have experienced trauma, abuse and neglect and have been placed in out of home care. Casework illustrations serve to reveal how the voice of the child is included in measures of participation, well-being and achievement that inform their Education Support Plans. Given the evidence of the impact of trauma on language development non-verbal methods of monitoring are used to explore the child’s perceptions of: what context is most likely to engage them using the Preferences for Activities for Children flashcards and pictorial Likert scales; how their attachment to the carer is developing using video recordings of structured play sessions with carers; sandtray and symbol work when creating trauma narratives; and iPad applications to scaffold emotional expression, social problem solving, transition planning and literacy and numeracy interventions. The program model is limited by recent government financial cutbacks in addition to the scarcity of educational and developmental psychologists in Queensland and its expansion to a national model requires a creative, facilitative model of leadership and strategic social investment in the local community.