A psychotherapist is a qualified mental health professional, someone who has passed training at postgraduate masters or masters’ equivalent level. Students remain in therapy for the duration of the training which must be for at least four years to integrate theoretical knowledge and clinical experience. This includes learning about how psychotherapy can facilitate a change in the neural mechanisms of the brain. Self-awareness, listening, verbal and written communication skills, empathy, a non-judgemental attitude, and the ability to create a rapport with others are all pre-requisites of the profession. Psychotherapists adhere to a code of conduct set out by our accreditation organisation. UKCP accreditation is a symbol of quality, with requirements in terms of research, diversity and equality, safeguarding, ethics, security, confidentiality, and supervision.
Psychodrama, an existential psychotherapy requires the therapist to truly encounter the individuals or groups with whom they work, addressing how they can live in the face of uncertainty, conflict, or death. During training I worked with individuals, groups, and primary care services in different contexts.
