History

From Westminster Pastoral Foundation to WPF Therapy

WPF Therapy began its existence at the Methodist Central Hall, Westminster.  It was through the vision, effort and persistence of  Minister Bill Kyle that the charity came into being 1969. Bill, with his wife Benita, recognised how psychological therapy - and in particular the insights and skills of the psychodynamic and psychoanalytic traditions - could transform  pastoral support work with communities. And so the learning began. With the motto 'Caring in the heart of the nation' the WPF began its journey to become a significant national provider of  psychodynamic counselling, therapy and training.

For thirty years the charity had its home in Kensington Square, at the convent of the Sisters of the Assumption. In 2008, WPF Therapy made the move to London Bridge, to a modern, purpose designed centre in a revitalised part of the city yet close to areas of significant social deprivation. Wealth does not provide immunity from psychological stress and pain. Poverty does not condemn people to mental ill health. However, it is now well established that people on low incomes are more likely to suffer psychological problems. This is why we work hard to make therapy affordable, with a low cost clinic and subsidised therapy based on household income.

Sadly, Bill Kyle died in 1980, but Benita keeps in touch with the organisation to which she and her husband devoted so much of their lives. As she sees it:

'Although it started within a church, WPF Therapy is now a charity independent of any religion and works with people, whether as staff, trainees or clients, of all faiths and none. It is a source of thankfulness, wonder and pride that the WPF Therapy of today, with its size, standing and reputation, has been achieved from those fragile, idealistic, embryonic beginnings of the Westminster Pastoral Foundation. It has taken commitment, expertise and dedication over the years by many people, as any worthwhile venture always does.'