Training FAQs

What is meant by the term psychodynamic?

This term refers to a model of therapy based on the principle that problems and distress in the present may be related to early experiences of which we are no longer aware. These experiences can result in repeating patterns of thinking, feeling and behaving which can have a damaging effect on experience in the present. Understanding these patterns helps to develop awareness and enables the individual to make choices so that they can move forward.

What is the difference between psychodynamic and other models of psychotherapy?

Psychodynamic therapy seeks to relieve mental suffering by uncovering the patterns of thinking; feeling and behaving which are hidden beneath the surface but reveal themselves in the relationship with the therapist.

Other models, in general, concentrate on what is on the surface and already known.

What is the difference between counselling and psychotherapy?

Our professional training qualifies graduates to be called psychotherapists, but some of our graduates and staff also refer to themselves as counsellors. Traditionally, psychotherapy training is more in-depth.

What qualities are you looking for in interviews?

In the individual interview: primarily the capacity to reflect on one's past and present experiences; the capacity to relate one to one in a way that is not overly defensive.

In the group interview: the ability to empathise; the potential to think psychodynamically; the ability to relate to the group; the ability to listen and respond appropriately.

What are the criteria for entry onto the Postgraduate Diploma in Psychodynamic Theory and Practice?

• Successful completion of a basic counselling skills course that is equivalent to the WPF Therapy introductory certificate.
• Some experience of using counselling skills, preferably in a one to one context. This could be in a befriending context or using such skills in the workplace.
• Possession of academic potential, though not necessarily a degree.
• Usually be over the age of 25.

How many trainees drop out?

Very few people drop out of training. This is in part because we interview carefully for all our courses and there is no automatic progression from one level to another. It is important to us that applicants have as full an understanding as possible of what a course will involve and demand of them. The interview also provides an opportunity for applicants to obtain answers to their individual questions so that they have a more rounded view of what each course entails.

How many years will I need to train before I can practise as a psychotherapist?

If an applicant is starting with little or no experience of counselling or psychotherapy then the minimum number of years is four. However it always needs to be borne in mind that each person is different and though this may be the minimum possible time it does not mean that each person is able to achieve the necessary skills and qualifications in that time. Each stage of the training is assessed and progression is dependent achieving a number of pre-set criteria. Some people decide they want to take more time and some people may be advised to take more time.

Can I get work as a psychotherapist before I finish the training?

Trainees are not qualified to work independently as therapists while they are still training. The exception to this applies to trainees who enter the third year of the Postgraduate Diploma because they hold previous counselling qualifications and are working under the auspices and ethical codes of the relevant training body.

Why do I need to be in personal therapy whilst I am training?

Personal therapy is seen as an essential requirement as this is the place where one can begin to understand and integrate the learning about relationships with oneself, clients, colleagues and others so that the work with clients is safe, contained and useful; i.e. not defensive, retaliatory or acted out.