Psychoanalytical training
The Site offers a psychoanalytic training which reflects the philosophy of the organisation. The training, which offers critical readings of psychoanalysis and its links to European philosophy and feminist theory, lasts a minimum of four years.
It aims at engaging with the historical, political, theoretical and clinical developments of psychoanalysis and seeks to acknowledge the socio-cultural specificity of the individual’s experience.
Our training is currently full. Further information will be posted here when we are able to start accepting applications from suitably qualified applicants. However, please note that the training has reached its limit on APELd trainees and currently there are no spaces available for APEL applicants.
It is the responsibility of the trainee to check with the Site about any Risk Assessments (RAs) provided by the Site and/or any venues used by the Site.
The Site plays a role in responding to complaints – please see here for more information. This does not affect your statutory rights.
Applying to train at the Site
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.
Initial enquiries should be addressed to the Site Administrator enquiries@the-site.org.uk