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This document is an editorial from the Counselling Psychology Review, written by Miltos Hadjiosif and May Lene Karlsen. The authors discuss their anthology of seven stories that aim to provoke and inspire therapists to reflect on their own journeys. They challenge the dominant narrative of the "wounded healer" and seek to highlight the diverse experiences and perspectives within the profession. The authors also emphasize the importance of storytelling and narrative in the field of counselling psychology, calling for a balance between skills-based knowledge and the rich, non-linear life-histories of therapists. [Extracted from the article]

This academic paper was written in 2007 as part of the submission requirements for the Qualification in Counselling Psychology. In the paper, I discuss my working context within the health service and reflect on the impact of change at the macro and micro levels of service provision. In particular I focused on my role in primary care. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper was written as part fulfilment of the qualification in Counselling Psychology (independent route), AU6 - Philosophical Paper. The paper attempts to critically examine the philosophical bases of counselling psychology, drawing from the historical development of Counselling Psychology as a profession and reflecting on the experience of the author in her personal development to become a counselling psychologist. The paper attempts to integrate concepts of philosophy and values with themes of identity, coherence and commitment, whilst considering key elements to the development of the profession, such as its stance in relation to the medical model, humanistic principles and the scientist-practitioner role. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper examines the question of how counselling psychology might move forward into the future. It argues that, for many counselling psychologists, the defining feature of our profession lies in a humanistic value-base; and that, to move forward, we need to look at how that could be more fully actualised. The paper argues that this value-base is most succinctly expressed in Levinas's concept of 'Welcoming the Other,' and it proposes five ways in which this ethic might be taken forward: developing our capacity to see beyond diagnoses, enhancing our responsiveness, focusing more fully on our client's intelligibility, taking a lead in giving psychology away, and developing our evidence base. The paper concludes by suggesting that the key issue is not the survival of counselling psychology as a profession; but the survival, development and proliferation of this value-base. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper begins by introducing the mythical origins of the wounded healer ethos and its relevance to therapy practice today. As a counselling psychologist in training, I consider my relationship with the wounded healer paradigm, and my position of discomfort in embracing the language of wounds and healing as applied to human suffering. This unease prompts a journey of deconstruction, probing the idea of therapists as healers. I visit authors from counselling psychology, critical psychology and psychoanalysis, who contribute diverse narratives of the role and influence of therapists, ranging from professional helper to malign deathmaker. I end with a return to the wounded healer ethos, holding this position lightly, as one of multiple complex and challenging narratives of being a therapeutic helper. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Content and Focus: Counselling psychologists offer their services to clients in organisational, political and economic contexts that are characterised by increasing levels of complexity, uncertainty and turbulence. Investigating the effectiveness of what we do remains critical to the future of the psychology professions, but our traditional approaches to scientific enquiry may not be adequate for the types of dilemma generated by complexity. Conclusions: This paper describes a framework, adapted from contemporary complexity theory, that can support us in thinking systematically and creatively about the range of investigative skills we might need if professional practice is to prove fit for purpose in the decades to come. It is proposed that complexity theory can assist us in responding creatively to the dilemmas of living and working in unprecedented times. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

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. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Content & Focus: This Special Edition of Counselling Psychology Review is focused on systematic reviews. Whilst considering the topic for the editorial to begin this Special Edition, we considered one overarching question to be of fundamental importance to attempt to tackle: What is a systematic review? We decided to have this as the focus of the editorial in part as a result of discussions with colleagues (both trainee and qualified psychologists) whose awareness of the answers to the following questions proved limited: What is a systematic review?; Why are they conducted?; and What does one look like? Following a brief introduction focused on the history and context surrounding the systematic review, we have, therefore, aimed to address each of these questions in turn. To end this initial section of the editorial, we provide readers with a check list of possible sections contained within a systematic review. The aim of this is to hopefully elaborate on the definitions and the discussions already considered, in order to help the reader more clearly understand what a systematic review really is. Following this we provide an overview of the seven papers incorporated into this Special Edition. Five of these provide very practical examples of the factors noted below in action while two provide further methodological reflections around the use of such research designs [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: Using a recent, widely-distributed film (that provoked strong reactions and protest across the globe) as its focus, this paper attempts to illustrate the construction of disability as created by the able-bodied majority to be primarily a societal issue of inequality and social justice. Methods: Analysis of the film is made using the component parts of Critical Disability Theory (CDT) as a framework with which to identify and disentangle factors that reveal the social construction of disability. Results/Findings: The paper identifies factors that, combined, form a dark and potentially sinister objective conceptualisation of disability by the able-bodied that sees disability as a fate worse than death. Discussion/Conclusions: By bringing to life through analysis the assertion that 'the personal is political', the paper suggests that maintaining a reflexive awareness of such negative portrayals of disability is an ethical obligation of counselling psychologists as ambassadors of social justice. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Context & focus: The Division of Counselling Psychology (DCoP) states a commitment to diversity, inclusion and non-discriminatory practice throughout the counselling psychology profession, and towards ensuring topics of culture and diversity are ‘mainstream discourse’ within the division (DCoP, 2021). The current paper explores diversity and inclusion, within the context of counselling psychology training; specifically, with regards to the relational aspects of doctoral research supervision, with trainees of colour. Existing evidence regarding the experiences of trainee counselling psychologists of colour are explored and considered against existing models for the task of research supervision. Personal reflections from the author’s own academic practice have been considered to illustrate points raised and to invite the reader to further self-reflection. Conclusion: Anne Lee’s (2008) model, outlining five ‘tasks’ for doctoral research supervision, has been expanded upon, to incorporate a reflective response to issues highlighted within the literature described above. Recommendations are made for future research supervision practice, for educators on counselling psychology training programmes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Content & Focus: This Editorial provides a brief reflection of a year in the life of Counselling Psychology Review. It looks back and summarises the activities of the publication over the past year before looking forward and contemplating future developments (if only we had a time machine! - a topical reference to one of the papers in this particular edition). In particular, we summarise the number of submissions the publication has received and reviewed in the past year - a factor that would not be possible with the voluntary support of those contributing peer reviews - and outline the special editions that we have planned for the present year. Finally, we provide a brief overview of what has become an unofficial theoretical special edition. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

By taking an historical, although not always linear, approach to events in my childhood, adolescence and adulthood, this paper reflects on how I became a counselling psychologist. The process was characterised by a gradual progression that included periods of uncertainty, of wanting to be 'a therapist' of some sort, and to eventually finding a professional identity as a counselling psychologist. In particular, the paper reflects on personal and political dimensions of events that occurred in the UK, Africa and the US and the meanings that are so intimately wound up in these. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Content & Focus: There is a discourse within psychology relating to homelessness that describes a significant minority of individuals in Britain who are less likely to experience physical, mental and emotional wellbeing than the housed majority. Homelessness is, therefore, contextualised here as both a relevant topic for counselling psychology and as a matter of social justice. The place of social justice within the counselling psychology discourse is discussed and the situation in the US is contrasted with that in the UK. Psychology, counselling and nursing literature relating to homelessness is critiqued to discover how useful it is for counselling psychologists, whether homelessness is being considered by counselling psychologists in the UK and whether it reflects the principles of social justice work for counselling psychologists proposed by Goodman et al. (2004). Conclusion: Existing literature relating to homelessness is of use to counselling psychologists in that it can be used to inform practice, understand the context of homelessness, and challenge the pathologisation of the homeless population. Of the literature considered, some of the North American papers explicitly show an interest in social justice unlike the British literature. It is difficult to ascertain the extent to which British counselling psychologists are working with homeless clients. Further research could consider: how many counselling psychologists in the UK are working with homeless clients; how counselling psychologists in the UK conceive of the relationship between the profession and society; and whether/how the conception of that relationship influences their work. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: This research explores trans people's experiences of healthcare and psychological services in the UK. The project aims to further inform Counselling Psychologists and other professionals of the specific needs of this client group. Methodology: Semi-structured interviews were conducted with nine participants. The data was analysed using Interpretative Phenomenological Analysis (IPA). Findings: Three master themes emerged from the analysis. This paper focuses on the master theme 'Survival', as it is most pertinent to applied psychologists. This theme explores trans people's experiences of developing coping strategies to manage the difficulties associated with transition and negotiating healthcare. Strategies included developing resilience and assertiveness, building a social support network, and finding the right therapist. Discussion: Implications for clinical practice are discussed. Specifically, the need for training and education, a trans affirmative stance, and the potential usefulness of CBT interventions to facilitate the development of relevant coping strategies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The author discusses the history of counselling psychology in Great Britain. Topics include the first annual conference of the British Psychological Society's Special Group in Counselling Psychology held in Birmingham, England in 1990, the relevance of positive psychology to counselling psychology, and the paper by Steffen, Vossler and Joseph.

Content & Focus: This paper focuses on positive, coaching and counselling psychology. It argues that counselling psychologists are in an ideal role to deliver positive psychology and coaching psychology services. The tension between counselling psychology relying upon diagnosis within the medical context in contrast to the positive and coaching psychology approach is briefly addressed. Conclusion: This paper concludes with a way forward for counselling psychology. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Several theories explain the motivation and process of becoming a therapist. The concept of 'wounded healer' is a common one, but this paper proposes an alternative metaphor which describes a journey wandering through life and discovering a purpose worth fighting for. The author describes this journey as one of being fortunately chosen rather than making deliberate choices. The process of becoming a counselling psychologist brought her into contact with those less fortunate than her and exposed her to diversity of education, class, culture, history and the world at large. The story starts with youth work and moves through studies in sociology to travelling to the West Indies and the newly independent countries of the commonwealth. A shift towards educational psychology was partially diverted into clinical research on benzodiazepines which later became a cause worth fighting for as she united the themes, of the dispossessed, the unheard, and the rejected that society blamed for their dependence. The author reflects on combining creativity with scientific rigour. The result has been a liking for 'making it up as you go along' which encourages flexibility rather than adherence to protocols and rules. There is a suggestion of rebellion here which is what the struggle for independence requires. Finally she concludes that counselling psychologists are like their clients; the product of their pasts. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Counselling psychologists working with couples inevitably encounter personal narratives embedded with traumata. These are often reported to impact the couple's relationship or even to have caused the presenting problem. This paper draws on the psychodynamic literature on trauma and reflects on how ideas emerging in the analytic field can support our understanding of this phenomenon and facilitate relational recovery. Working with couples allows the practitioner to witness the emergence of traumatic material in the dyadic relational context and how this often relates to earlier trauma, whose genesis is likewise embedded in the dyad. The professional's presence changes the relational context into a triadic one and this can then serve the important function of facilitating thinking and reflection about these experiences, thereby allowing a detoxification of the enactments arising between the couple. The risk inherent to working with trauma manifest within this context is discussed, as well as the relational stance required of the professional in order to avoid being experienced as an uninvolved bystander amplifying traumatic anxieties. Finally, this paper emphasises that counselling psychologists working with couples need to appreciate the emergence of reparative and creative interaction within the couple as trauma starts to recede into the relational background. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: This paper examines the empirical research concerning counselling psychologists who utilise the internet in their practice. More specifically, we summarise the quantitative research of online therapeutic outcomes and alliances reported in text-based therapeutic encounters. Background: Online therapy creates much debate within the therapeutic world. Many question the validity of entering into these relatively uncharted waters, while others have begun working productively in this territory. To date, a small pool of research examining the efficacy of such work has emerged and provides the focus for this paper. Method: A review of the literature has been conducted with a two-fold strategy. Initially a review of 16 quantitative outcome studies investigating this area are presented and discussed - these have been selected from Barak, Hen, Boniel-Nissim and Shapira's (2008) comprehensive review of the effectiveness of internetbased psychotherapeutic interventions. Following this, the focus is moved to the concept of the online therapeutic alliance. A systematic review of the existing literature outlines five pertinent quantitative studies and these are discussed in relation to key qualitative work in this area. Conclusions: Conclusions are drawn highlighting that work in this medium shows great promise, with both successful outcomes and strong alliances being reported online. Such findings, although limited due to the dearth of the research available, challenge the views of those sceptical of counselling psychologists entering into virtual arenas. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: On the long and often stressful road to qualifying as a counselling psychologist the issue of self-care is addressed early within the training. Yet this idea of self-care relates to therapeutic practice, with little consideration of self-care during the research process. With the training route now at Doctoral level, all practitioners will undertake a significant research project as part of the qualifying portfolio. Aims and scope: This paper explores the process issues encountered in conducting research into the experience of Childhood Sexual Abuse (CSA), and raises questions about the way self-care is addressed within the research process. The article reflects upon a content analysis of 202 personal accounts of CSA with the aim of exploring the presence of Stockholm syndrome and PTSD within CSA. Literature from selfcare within the clinical application of psychology and trauma-based work is discussed as a starting point for the development of self-care within a research context. Conclusion: Recommendations are made for changes in research practice and ethical review, and a clear role for counselling psychologists to lead in this development. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Context and focus: This paper presents a critical evaluation of the relevance and implications of the scientist-practitioner model for counselling psychology. It reviews the history and development of the model and outlines its main features. Support for the model and criticisms of it are considered in order to demonstrate that the model represents a creative tension. This creative tension exists because of a need for counselling psychology to regularly review and question its philosophies, origins, priorities and its practice. Conclusions: This paper takes the view that the scientist-practitioner model remains the most helpful model for counselling psychology, but that components such as scientific practice, research methods, and integration need to be flexible concepts, open to improvement as a result of discussion, reflection, and experience. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The principle of containment is fundamental to psychodynamic psychotherapy. This paper explores the idea of containment and the ways in which it might be useful to us in our work as counselling psychologists. It begins with a theoretical look at the importance of containment in the early developmental process and how it might be fulfilled or lacking for a child. It then demonstrates how similar aspects might be played out in the therapy room and suggests ways in which counselling psychologists might be able to provide containment for their clients from both theoretical and practical perspectives. Personal examples and case illustrations are used to demonstrate the practical elements of containment in the therapy room. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

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. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

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. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background/Aims: The 'scientist-practitioner' and the 'reflective-practitioner' are the preferred models of training and practice within the discipline of counselling psychology. However, chartered counselling psychologists seem to exhibit a diminished interest for research engagement and remarkably low research productivity. The present study aims to identify and investigate factors that may motivate, facilitate or hinder counselling psychologists' engagement with research, whilst taking into account the context within which research activity takes place. Methodology: The present paper presents the first, quantitative part of a larger mixed-methods research project investigating the relationship of chartered counselling psychologists with research. Data was collected from 94 chartered counselling psychologists (living and practicing either in Greece or the UK), who completed online two self-report questionnaires (CP-RAS and SAS). Multiple Linear Regression was subsequently conducted in order to predict and explain the relationship between motivational, facilitating, hindering and contextual factors with chartered counselling psychologists' scholarly activity. Results: Analysis revealed that motivation, but not facilitating, hindering or contextual factors, was a significant predictor of counselling psychologists' research activity, even after controlling for key demographic variables. Participants' gender, years of professional experience and professional post were also significant predictors of research activity, with males, practitioners with more years of professional experience and academics reporting higher scholarly activity. Discussion: The present study offers useful insight into the factors enhancing or thwarting counselling psychologists' engagement with research. The results are examined in relation to existing literature, and the implications for the training, research and practice of counselling psychology are discussed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

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. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

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. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aims: For many therapists woundedness is a hidden secret. This deceit is sometimes masked as 'professionalism'. We need to unravel the mystique which we unawarely embrace, and examines the cost of this illusion. This paper unusually begins by discussing these issues which emanated from specific research. It is contended that we stand a better chance of making an authentic relationship with those we seek to help if we are prepared to celebrate our scarred, glorious, mis-shapenly successful, and often faulty selves for what we are. Method: The heuristic research conducted by the author explores the lives of 17 self-selected therapists and how their own life crises affected their work with clients. The stance is phenomenological qualitative method which is an adaptation of Moustakas's (1990) protocol. The method used develops Moustakas's methodology, here privileging a co-constructed account of each co-researcher's (participant's) story. Findings: The outcomes of this research were predictably idiosyncratic and this accords with the postmodernist stance of the researcher. There were commonalities too: many co-researchers found it was better to celebrate our shared but faulty humanity, while protecting our clients from the worst of our failings. Co-researchers indicated that the power and the peril of being more nakedly human is worth it. Implications for practice: The research appears to make a case for the theory that life is the best teacher, if only we are prepared to learn. It challenges the reader to find within themselves something akin to the wisdom which can come only from the examined life. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

An introduction is presented in which the editor discusses articles in the issue on topics including public libraries, applied psychologists, and doctoral thesis.

Background: The aim of the study was to capture the training experiences of Black and Minority Ethnic (BME) trainee counselling psychologists in the United Kingdom (UK). To date there is a lack of research and literature looking at the experiences of BME trainee counselling psychologist in the UK. Methodology: A qualitative approach was adopted; semi-structured interviews were conducted with five self-identified BME trainees. The accounts were analysed using Interpretative Phenomenological Analysis (IPA). Findings: The analytic procedure highlighted five main superordinate themes which were constructed from participants’ accounts. All five participants contributed to every superordinate theme generated, which were: The need to belong; Lack of diversity; The impact of support on the self; Versatile BME trainee identity; and Managing a range of challenges. Each superordinate theme featured two related subordinate themes. Conclusion: Insights from the analysis indicate the experiences of UK BME trainee counselling psychologists consist of experiences including a sense of a lack of belonging on the training programme which in turn made the BME trainees feel lonely and isolated. The challenges experienced by the BME trainees included not feeling understood and supported. The lack of diversity was reflected in the Eurocentric bias in the training, lack of BME representation and the hardship of not being white. However, the participants reflected on their positive experience of connecting with BME clients by using their BME identity and experience. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

To explore individual narratives of a therapist's route to entering the profession, I undertook a self-critical analysis of personal experiences, emotional understandings, and meaning making of my life prior to becoming a counselling psychologist. Pathways to entering a psychotherapeutic profession are nuanced, and idiosyncratic, so rather than the ubiquitous 'wounded healer' narrative being the sole applicable metaphor for my life journey, I draw out another metaphor more pertinent to my particular experience: the music of therapy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Climate change is a growing concern, a multi-dimensional, societal issue affecting our personal lives and the way we engage with clients. There is evidence that people are finding it a matter of anxiety and as such it is increasingly a focus in the therapeutic domain. In order to understand counselling psychology's relationship to climate change, the Executive Committee of the British Psychological Society Division of Counselling Psychology (DCoP) initiated a working group on climate change in the latter part of 2019. This working group had several tasks including a statement about psychology and climate change, and the development of a reference library as a resource for those members who want to better understand the literature. The reference library is available at www.bps.org.uk/sites/www.bps.org.uk/files/Member%20Networks/Divisions/DCoP/Climate%20Change%20-%20Useful%20Reading.pdf. Methodology/methods: This consultation asked a sample of British counselling psychologists about their experience of research, clinical work and other engagement with climate change. Themes were identified. Results/findings: The findings indicate some variation as to what counselling psychologists think and do in relation to climate change; most respondents accepted that counselling psychologists need to be aware of the issue and be able to respond helpfully to clients who bring this focus; some colleagues are already working with this material and many wanted training; some are researching this phenomenon and wanted assistance in funding and disseminating relevant work; and counselling psychologists thought that the Division/wider BPS might usefully make a mission statement, library of resources and offer training. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background & Aims: Research suggests that a therapist who works dynamically with their own explicit and implicit beliefs and attitudes, sourced in their own multilayered lived experience, may be better able to appreciate, and more accurately perceive, a clients' lived experience. This study aims to explore counselling psychologists' narratives around anti-discriminatory practice and to examine how counselling psychologists utilise self-awareness to make meaning of and to address the influence of potentially biasing explicit and implicit beliefs, on the therapeutic process in relation to difference and diversity. Method: Semi-structured interviews were carried out with six qualified counselling psychologists who graduated from UK-based counselling psychology doctoral programmes within five years previous to the study. Verbatim transcripts of the interviews were analysed using Interpretative Phenomenological Analysis (IPA). Findings: The analysis produced three master themes: 'Views toward anti-discriminatory practice'; 'Reflections on self-awareness of beliefs and attitudes in relation to difference and diversity'; and 'Actively working with difference and diversity in the therapy room'. Conclusion: The findings substantiate counselling psychologist's multifaceted and critical stance on anti-discriminatory practice. Participants were conscious of and sensitive to the relationship between self-awareness of potentially biasing beliefs and attitudes in relation to difference and diversity and therapeutic practice. Moreover, the findings suggest that core humanistic therapeutic skills, when aided by self-awareness and a reflective practice, can monitor potentially biasing and prejudicial attitudes in Counselling Psychology practice, thus providing a foundation for ADP from a counselling psychology perspective. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Content & Focus: This study has investigated how White trainee counselling psychologists construct their experience of training in the area of racial difference, and how they discursively explore and negotiate their own potential for racial prejudice within the therapeutic encounter. This study attempts to offer some insight into the available discourses and their role in the creation of subject positions that the trainees come to occupy. Method: Using the framework of Critical Discursive Psychology (CDP), data from eight interviews and two focus groups have been discursively analysed and are presented as one of an ever-evolving number of possible analyses. The study consisted of four female and four male participants, ranging in age from 28-57 years, who were between their second and fourth year of training. Findings: The present analysis of the data has found that as the participants grapple with their professional identities as counselling psychologists in training, they inhabit one of three seemingly omnipresent discursive fields; 'colour-blindness', 'interculturalism' and 'pluralism'. These fields offer the trainees alternative constructions of practice that are drawn on depending on which professional representation appears to be at stake. In particular, the participants struggle to balance the desire for value free openness associated with a pluralistic approach, alongside a need for professional competency. This professional competency is characterised by a dependence upon generalised understandings of racialised groups as supported by an intercultural perspective. Conclusion: It is argued that the multifaceted epistemological roots of counselling psychology leave much open to interpretation. Discursive fields are occupied interchangeably and supported by ideologies that are seemingly ill-defined. The present study would argue that the result is a basis for practice that runs the risk of alternating between privileging and excluding difference, whilst espousing an apparent integrity presented within the theory of pluralism. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Content and Focus: Counselling psychology has been described as having its roots in humanistic philosophy and this has been used to carve out a niche for itself within the wider psychological world. In doing so it has come into conflict with the medical model and defined itself in opposition. Now that counselling psychology is established, is there still a need for such resistance, or can we learn from wider sources? I consider this issue in the context of how the medical and humanistic perspectives have informed our understanding of depression and the way in which we try to help those suffering with depression. This leads to a wider consideration of the implications of scientific methodology and the arguments against the supremacy of empirically supported treatments. I then discuss the potential of the pluralistic approach outlined by Cooper and McLeod (2011) to bridge the gap between the two approaches and provide a more unified way of working within the evidence explored. Finally I look at the implications for the future of the profession concluding that the battle with the prevailing medical model is not yet won, but may not need to be. Also, our humanistic background may yet prove important, not just in the survival of the profession, but also in ensuring clients get what they need from counselling. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Content and Focus: In 2009, the threshold of registration for counselling psychologists in the UK was set at doctoral level, meaning that henceforth trainees in the field will generally be expected to produce a piece of doctoral-level research in order to qualify. Uncertainties and debates around counselling psychology's identity, distinctiveness, and contribution have affected research produced by trainees, to the extent that doctoral candidates are often not meeting the doctoral criteria of extending the forefront of the discipline and being at the cutting edge of professional practice, as set out in the Framework for Higher Education in England and Wales. Conclusions: The authors present a list of traps derived from their experience of supervising and examining doctoral research into which trainees, supervisees and examiners may fall in creating that body of research, and suggest ways of ensuring that trainee research work truly extends the forefront of and contributes to the practice of counselling psychology. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Content and focus: This article provides a critique of Yakushko, Davidson and Nutt Williams' (2009) Identity Salience Model (ISM), a model which asserts that comprehensive case conceptualisation ideally includes consideration of those identities of most significance to the client within a broad ecological framework. I outline the essential features and ambitions of the model, identifying the features that help it to fill the identified gap of 'how to' incorporate social contextual factors into conceptualisation. I then explore some of the omissions I perceive potentially risk its application becoming superficial and sidelined. Conclusions: Although the model offers an excellent conceptual tool for counselling psychology, it misses an opportunity to appeal across psychological disciplines as an integrated model. It is proposed that specific inclusion of a more integrated theoretical framework would enable its incorporation into mainstream psychological interventions and formulation more easily. I therefore outline relevant theory and research pertaining to the processes of internalised oppression and microaggression that could expand counselling psychologists' awareness of how to apply contextual influences through the ISM framework. Finally, I introduce the concept of intersectionality and give some suggestions how it could be integrated with the ISM, allowing it to become a framework that moves beyond use solely as a conceptual model for individual therapy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aims: This research explored the experience of therapy from the perspective of the client. It was felt that hearing clients' stories may inform the work of counselling psychologists by increasing awareness of what matters to clients in therapy. Method: Narrative methodologies were used which enable the rich meaning of an individual's experience to be co-created. Four co-researchers were invited to participate in research conversations to share their experience of being a client in therapy. Findings: Client's concerns such as congruence, pacing, power, boundaries and ethics emerge from the individual stories. Client ambivalence and power emerge as themes and these are consistent with the literature (McLeod, 1990). The relevance of narrative methodologies to counselling psychology research is identified as well as the importance of giving an opportunity for the voice of the client to be heard (Etherington, 2008). Implications for practice: This research connects to the larger stories about power, boundaries, therapist training, political drives towards time-limited therapy and evidence-based practice. Most importantly, the necessity of a counselling psychologist working ethically is highlighted and the enduring damage caused by unethical practice is made visible within the very personal stories. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The QCoP is not a course of study in the traditional sense; it is instead a professional body award which determines whether or not the required competences have been demonstrated. The QCoP recognises that counselling psychologists are required to have a range of knowledge and skills. It has Documentary Evidence Units designed to ensure that candidates undertake appropriate developmental experiences and Assessment Units designed to ensure that candidates are able to demonstrate the knowledge and skills which they have developed. Upon successfully completing the QCoP, candidates are eligible to apply for Chartered Membership and to apply to the HPC for registration as a counselling psychologist. The QCoP also conveys eligibility for full membership of the Society's Division of Counselling Psychology.' (Qualification of Counselling Psychology Candidate Handbook, 2010, p.4). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Having a Spring clean or moving on provides an opportunity to turn out and re-examine the treasures from the past. Whether they have been proudly on display or tucked away in an attic, these treasures need to be re-assessed to see whether they are still as valuable as they were once thought to be, are no longer of any use or desperately important, need to be left behind or rescued and cleaned up to take with us on our journey into the future. Sometimes in a dark and rarely visited corner, lies a treasure of great worth that may have been overlooked. This presentation examines the treasures we started out with to see if they are still worthwhile, what has become our junk, what might be re-cycled and given away to someone else, and what we cannot go on without but must preserve at all costs. Our history as counselling psychologists contains all these kinds of treasures, some of which are no longer fit for purpose and some will be seen as indispensible. The presenter of this talk will not decide and define what these are but will propose some ways for each of us to make our own evaluation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this article the author reflects on the earlier predictions for Counselling Psychology in Great Britain. The author mentions that the areas predicted include developments in Counselling Psychology Practice, employment and the field's relation to the British Psychological Society. The author believes that the prediction of the appreciation of the value of evidence will be more outstanding and psychologists will continue to look to Counselling Psychology because the skills fit what is needed.

Counselling Psychologists, individually and collectively, contribute hugely to the delivery of psychological therapies in the NHS and more widely. The significant and welcome emphasis on psychosocial and 'well-being' approaches from Government and the wider civic society implies that this contribution by Counselling Psychologists will continue and grow. But this apparently positive picture also contains very significant threats for the 'profession' of Counselling Psychology. Counselling Psychology is - in reality and in the policy-making, regulatory and commissioning spheres - a branch of psychology, and indeed a component of psychosocial services. In that context, the major issue for Counselling Psychology to address is the manner in which the competencies of Counselling Psychologists are generic and shared (shared with other caring professions, shared with psychosocial professionals, shared with psychological therapists and shared with other branches of professional psychology) versus specific to the 'profession'. It may be a matter of some concern to Counselling Psychologists that the 'Venn diagram' of overlapping competencies leaves little apparent unique territory for Counselling Psychology. In particular, the overlap between Clinical and Counselling Psychology is preternaturally close. The future, then, for Counselling Psychologists may, therefore, best be secured through reversing the historic split between the branches - even if that means permitting Clinical Psychology to assimilate Counselling Psychology. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this article the author reflects on what should be done to advance Counselling Psychology forward into the next ten years. The author mentions that the field faces transition as a result of the application of evidence-based practice in the public and private sectors. She believes that the present orientation is the setting up of good practice through multiple randomized control trials and that in order to survive, psychologists should adapt and continue to make a living.

A personal narrative is presented which explores the author's experience of being an assistant editor and highly specialist counselling psychologist in North Yorkshire.

The article focuses on editorial policies for authors of the periodical "Counselling Psychology Review" and also mentions that counselling psychologists raised questions about mental health response to the lack of affordable housing.

The article focuses on the Division of Counseling Psychology (DCoP) Award for Distinctive Contribution to Counseling Psychology Practice. It states the Award aims to recognize the psychologists who made distinctive contributions to professional practice and the annual prize worth 500 pounds also serves as recognition to the importance of psychology practice in the development of the counseling psychology. It mentions that the award is open to any psychology practitioner in any area of professional psychology who is a member of the Division, however, the award was not made to psychologists within an academic department. It adds that panels will be base on the originality, effect of counseling psychology as an applied science, and significances for the welfare of the people being served.

The article focuses on the Division of Counseling Psychology (DCoP) Trainee Counseling Psychologist Annual Prize for 2011. It states that the Prize was made to encourage excellence in the research of counseling psychology and the first winner will receive a prize worth 300 pounds while the two runner-ups will get 100 pounds. It mentions that the recipients must be training to be a counseling psychologist or have completed the training to become eligible for the prize within 12 months.