Training

Applicants are expected to have been in personal twice-weekly psychoanalytic psychotherapy for at least one year prior to application (see Trainee Handbook, “Personal therapy”, for details). Whilst the Site is eager to avoid the disruption of anyone’s therapy, the psychotherapist has to be approved by the Training Committee. Consequently, any prospective applicant is advised to consult the Site prior to starting with a new psychotherapist.

Applicants are expected to have had relevant work experience in related fields, such that they have been exploring their desire and capacity to work with those who suffer.  Experience deemed relevant includes (but is not limited to) volunteering or placements in organisations such as Mind, the Listening Place, or Samaritans.

The training is at Masters level and, although formal academic qualifications are not essential, applicants should have had some formal learning experience (to graduate level or equivalent), have undertaken some formal or informal study of psychoanalytic and philosophical texts and ideas, and must be able to demonstrate the capacity for studying at the level required, to be willing to read widely and to produce written work. Applicants must also demonstrate a capacity for self-reflection and to articulate their insight.

On receipt of the completed application form and payment of the application fee two interviews are arranged with members of the Training Committee, references are taken up and a decision on the applicant’s suitability is made. In some circumstances a third interview may be necessary. Applicants can join the training group in October or January.