Counselling Tutor podcast: Recent Episodes
ken@counsellingtutor.com
The Counselling Tutor podcast serves student counsellors and psychotherapists in training. Rory Lees-Oakes and Ken Kelly examine the theory and practice of counselling and deliver academic content in an easy to understand and fun podcast.
Students of Person Centred counselling, Transactional Analysis and behavioural models such as CBT will find something relevant to their studies on the Counselling Tutor Podcast.
In Episode 381 of the Counselling Tutor Podcast, your hosts Rory Lees-Oakes and Ken Kelly take us through this week's three topics:
Firstly, in 'Ethical, Sustainable Practice', they explore Amplify Intention – Ethical AI in Counselling Practice, considering how counsellors can use AI ethically to enhance their professional voice and practice without compromising their values.
Then in 'Practice Matters', Rory speaks with Meg Moss from the NCPS about the Lost for Words campaign and the Open Access Therapy Framework - a proposal to improve access to counselling through greater choice in NHS therapy provision.
And finally, in 'Student Services', Rory and Ken discuss managing loss and transitions in counselling studies, reflecting on the endings that come with completing training and moving into the next stage of professional development.
In Episode 380 of the Counselling Tutor Podcast, your hosts Rory Lees-Oakes and Ken Kelly take us through this week's three topics:
Firstly, in 'Ethical, Sustainable Practice', they explore AI and regulation in counselling practice - looking at the current regulatory landscape, ethical responsibilities, and what practitioners need to consider when using AI tools.
Then in 'Practice Matters', Rory speaks with Sarah Henry about teaching counselling as a potential career path - exploring the transition from practitioner to educator and the skills required to support future counsellors.
And finally, in 'Student Services', Rory and Ken discuss the reality of self-employment in counselling - examining what it takes to build and sustain a private practice as a business.
In Episode 379 of the Counselling Tutor Podcast, your hosts Rory Lees-Oakes and Ken Kelly take us through this week's three topics:
Firstly, in 'Ethical, Sustainable Practice', they explore professional accountability and responsibility in AI in counselling practice - including who holds responsibility if something goes wrong.
Then in 'Practice Matters', Rory speaks with Ken Kelly about his new book, Ethical AI Practice for Counsellors and Psychotherapists in the UK, and the growing role of AI in counselling and psychotherapy.
And finally in 'Student Services', Rory and Ken discuss recognising poor supervision in counselling training - including red flags to look out for and what good supervision should provide.
In Episode 378 of the Counselling Tutor Podcast, your hosts Rory Lees-Oakes and Ken Kelly take us through this week's three topics:
Firstly, in 'Ethical, Sustainable Practice', they explore AI, bias and critical thinking in counselling, examining the risks of bias and discrimination and the importance of critical thinking when using AI in counselling practice.
Then in 'Practice Matters', Rory speaks with Emma Neville about making menopause matter - exploring lived experience, advocacy, education, and the importance of open conversations around menopause.
And finally in 'Student Services', Rory and Ken discuss why counselling skills can sometimes feel difficult and how students can build confidence and trust in their developing practice.
In Episode 377 of the Counselling Tutor Podcast, your hosts Rory Lees-Oakes and Ken Kelly take us through this week's three topics:
Firstly, in 'Ethical, Sustainable Practice', they explore AI apps and depersonalisation in counselling - looking at how AI tools may risk weakening the therapeutic relationship and the importance of maintaining human connection in therapy.
Then in 'Practice Matters', Rory speaks with Jane Godward and Tara Fox about their new book, The Process of Becoming a Counsellor: Navigating the Transformation - discussing the realities of counselling training, personal development, and choosing the right course.
And finally, in 'Student Services', Rory and Ken discuss how to write a personal statement for a counselling course - including what tutors are really looking for and how to present yourself authentically.
In Episode 376 of the Counselling Tutor Podcast, your hosts Rory Lees-Oakes and Ken Kelly take us through this week's three topics:
Firstly, in 'Ethical, Sustainable Practice', they explore AI in counselling practice, focusing on understanding informed consent and data use.
Then in 'Practice Matters', Rory speaks with Amy Peters about neurodivergent affirming therapy and her new book on working with autistic and ADHD clients.
And finally in 'Student Services', Rory, Ken and Paul Cullen discuss whether your therapist can also be your counselling supervisor, exploring the ethical and practical considerations.
In Episode 375 of the Counselling Tutor Podcast, your hosts Rory Lees-Oakes and Ken Kelly take us through this week's three topics:
Firstly, in 'Ethical, Sustainable Practice', they explore confidentiality and data privacy in the age of AI, focusing on how counsellors can safely manage client data when using digital tools.
Then in 'Practice Matters', Rory speaks with Daragh MacLoughlin about the secrets of a successful website, including how to attract clients ethically and effectively online.
And finally, in 'Student Services', Rory and Ken discuss how counsellors handle disagreements with colleagues, with insights on navigating conflict professionally during training and beyond.
In Episode 374 of the Counselling Tutor Podcast, your hosts Rory Lees-Oakes and Ken Kelly take us through this week's three topics:
Firstly, in 'Ethical, Sustainable Practice', they explore AI and the therapeutic relationship - looking at how clients are using AI, the risks involved, and how therapists can respond ethically.
Then in 'Practice Matters', Rory speaks with Jonathan Drury about the Autism Dialogue Approach - examining neurodiversity, communication, and how therapists can work more collaboratively and equitably.
And finally in 'Student Services', Rory and Ken discuss managing anxiety about counselling training - normalising the experience and offering strategies to navigate it.
In Episode 373 of the Counselling Tutor Podcast, your hosts Rory Lees-Oakes and Ken Kelly take us through this week's three topics:
Firstly, in 'Ethical, Sustainable Practice', they explore defensible decision making in relation to using technology and AI in counselling practice.
Then in 'Practice Matters', Rory speaks with Erene Hadjiioannou about new 2026 guidance on police requests for counselling notes and what this means for client confidentiality and therapeutic work.
And finally in 'Student Services', Rory, Ken, and Sarah Henry discuss balancing time and training — the realities, expectations, and challenges of being a counselling student.
In Episode 372 of the Counselling Tutor Podcast, your hosts Rory Lees-Oakes and Ken Kelly take us through this week's three topics:
- Firstly, in 'Ethical, Sustainable Practice', they explore understanding AI categories in counselling practice, examining the different types of AI tools counsellors may encounter and why understanding these distinctions is essential for ethical and safe client work.
- Then in 'Practice Matters', Rory speaks with therapist and journalist Matt Hussey about the future of therapy in the age of AI and how technology may reshape mental health support.
- And finally in 'Student Services', Rory and Ken discuss agency reports in counselling training - what they are, why they matter, and how they contribute to assessing a trainee counsellor's readiness for professional practice.
In Episode 371 of the Counselling Tutor Podcast, your hosts Rory Lees-Oakes and Ken Kelly explore three key topics relevant to counsellors and counselling students.
Firstly, in 'Ethical, Sustainable Practice', they introduce the emerging conversation around AI in counselling, exploring whether therapists are being left behind and how practitioners can engage with AI ethically.
Then in 'Practice Matters', Rory speaks with Jessica Wing about preparing to meet your very first client, sharing insights to help students transition from classroom practice to real therapeutic work.
And finally in 'Student Services', Rory and Ken clarify the difference between humanism and person-centred therapy, a common area of confusion for counselling students studying theoretical models.
In Episode 370 of the Counselling Tutor Podcast, your hosts Rory Lees-Oakes and Ken Kelly take us through this week's three topics:
· Firstly, in 'Ethical, Sustainable Practice', they explore grounding techniques in counselling practice, highlighting key techniques every counsellor should know and why these skills are essential for safe, trauma-informed work.
· Then in 'Practice Matters', Rory speaks with Bernie Wright and Lisa Smith about ARFID (Avoidant Restrictive Food Intake Disorder) – what it is, how it presents, and why it is often misunderstood, particularly in neurodivergent individuals.
· And finally, in 'Student Services', Rory, Ken and Paul Cullen discuss how to find your first supervisor – what to look for, what questions to ask, and why the supervisory relationship matters so much in your development.
In Episode 369 of the Counselling Tutor Podcast, your hosts Rory Lees-Oakes and Ken Kelly take us through this week's three topics:
- Firstly, in 'Ethical, Sustainable Practice', they explore working with shame in the therapy room – how shame presents, how it differs from guilt, and how to work with it gently and ethically.
- Then in 'Practice Matters', Rory speaks with Nadine Pittam about limerence – a powerful and often overwhelming state of obsessive romantic attachment – and how therapists can work safely and effectively with clients experiencing it.
- And finally in 'Student Services', Rory and Ken discuss what to do when you feel out of your depth as a counselling student, offering reassurance, practical guidance, and encouragement.
In Episode 368 of the Counselling Tutor Podcast, your hosts Rory Lees-Oakes and Ken Kelly guide you through three key areas of counselling practice, learning, and development.
- In Ethical, Sustainable Practice, Rory and Ken explore when media coverage enters the counselling room, examining how major reporting on trauma and abuse can increase client contact and shape presentations.
- In Practice Matters, Rory is interviewed by Sarah Henry about his latest CPD lecture on attachment, exploring why attachment theory is central to therapeutic work.
- And in Student Services, Rory and Ken discuss the role of check-ins and check-outs in counselling training, and why these processes matter far beyond the classroom.
In Episode 367 of the Counselling Tutor Podcast, your hosts Rory Lees-Oakes and Ken Kelly explore three timely and important topics for counsellors, psychotherapists, and students.
- Firstly, in Ethical, Sustainable Practice, Rory and Ken explore talking to clients about AI in therapy, discussing the growing presence of artificial intelligence (AI) in clients' lives and why therapists need to address the risks, ethics, and boundaries of AI use within the therapeutic contract.
- Then, in Practice Matters, Rory is joined by Andrew Kidd for the second part of their conversation on EMDR, focusing on the functional model and how EMDR works in practice to help clients reprocess trauma.
- Finally, in Student Services, Rory and Ken unpack a common source of confusion for trainees: when you actually become "qualified" as a counsellor, and how this differs from accreditation and employability.
In Episode 366 of the Counselling Tutor Podcast, your hosts Rory Lees-Oakes and Ken Kelly take us through this week's three topics:
- Firstly, in 'Ethical, Sustainable Practice', we examine the new police guidance on accessing counselling records – essential listening if you work with trauma or abuse.
- Then, in 'Practice Matters', Rory speaks with Lisa Williams on integrating genograms and social graces to enhance self-awareness and deepen the therapeutic relationship.
- And finally, in 'Student Services', Rory and Ken explore fitness to practise - what it means, how to get signed off, and what to do if you're struggling with that final hurdle.
In Episode 365 of the Counselling Tutor Podcast, your hosts Rory Lees-Oakes and Ken Kelly take us through this week's three topics:
- Firstly, in 'Ethical, Sustainable Practice', we ask: when is it the right time to train as a supervisor? Rory and Ken, joined by Paul Cullen, explore motivations, timing, and expectations for moving into this advanced professional role.
- Then in 'Practice Matters', Rory speaks with Sally-Anne Armitage, who returns to share creative supervision techniques that can enrich both supervisory and client practice.
- And finally in 'Student Services', Rory and Ken respond to a common concern from placement practitioners - how to talk to clients about being a trainee counsellor while maintaining confidence and clarity.
In Episode 364 of the Counselling Tutor Podcast, your hosts Rory Lees-Oakes and Ken Kelly take us through this week's three topics:
- Firstly, in 'Ethical, Sustainable Practice', we explore the question 'Will AI Replace Counsellors and Psychotherapists?', examining how AI is currently used in mental health care and what this might mean for the future of the profession.
- Then in 'Practice Matters', Rory speaks with Mahmoud Ahmed about his newly published book A New Introduction to Counselling and Psychotherapy, which calls for embedding diversity, equity, and context at the heart of practice.
- And finally, in 'Student Services', Rory and Ken explore what happens when your counselling course ends but your placement hours are incomplete – offering guidance on how to stay motivated and complete the journey.
In Episode 363 of the Counselling Tutor Podcast, your hosts Rory Lees-Oakes and Ken Kelly take us through this week's three topics:
- Firstly, in 'Ethical, Sustainable Practice', we explore choosing the right online tech for counselling, highlighting how equipment and setup affect professionalism and therapeutic presence.
- Then in 'Practice Matters', Rory speaks with Caroline Evers-Endacott about working with alcohol, problem drinking, and recovery pathways – emphasising how therapists can work ethically and effectively with clients navigating addiction.
- And finally in 'Student Services', Rory and Ken offer guidance on how to manage long breaks between counselling training levels, including tips for maintaining motivation, skills, and learning during study gaps.
In Episode 362 of the Counselling Tutor Podcast, your hosts Rory Lees-Oakes and Ken Kelly take us through this week's three topics:
- Firstly, in 'Ethical, Sustainable Practice', we explore working with clients who have a psychiatric diagnosis, considering how to approach this work ethically, including navigating risk, understanding medication, and maintaining person-centred care.
- Then in 'Practice Matters', Rory catches up with Alex Gulland, a year after she qualified, to hear what the transition from student to practitioner has really been like – from building a client base to discovering a passion for equine-assisted therapy.
- And finally in 'Student Services', Ken and Rory explore how to protect client confidentiality when writing case studies – including anonymisation techniques and data protection guidance. Sarah Henry joins to share her frontline insights into balancing academic and ethical responsibilities.
In Episode 361 of the Counselling Tutor Podcast, your hosts Rory Lees-Oakes and Ken Kelly explore three vital topics for students and practitioners of counselling and psychotherapy:
- Firstly, in 'Ethical, Sustainable Practice', Rory and Ken examine managing isolation in counselling practice, highlighting why counsellors may experience isolation, the impact of emotional labour, and the importance of maintaining professional connections.
- Then in 'Practice Matters', Rory speaks with psychotherapist Claire Ratcliffe about the subtle but essential distinction between feeling safe and being safe in therapy, and what this means for clients and therapeutic practice.
- And finally, in 'Student Services', Rory and Ken offer practical guidance on how to reference non-academic resources in academic assignments.
In Episode 360 of the Counselling Tutor Podcast, your hosts Rory Lees-Oakes and Ken Kelly take us through this week's three topics:
- Firstly, in 'Ethical, Sustainable Practice', they explore the inevitable ruptures that can occur in the therapeutic relationship - and how recognising and repairing these moments builds resilience and strengthens the alliance.
- Then in 'Practice Matters', Rory speaks with Ian Long, illustrator and co-creator of the iconic Blob Tree, about the origins, evolution, and global impact of these powerful visual tools in therapy and education.
- And finally, in 'Student Services', Rory and Ken rethink transference in person-centred therapy, offering insight into how these dynamics show up during training and why they matter - even outside of client work.
In Episode 359 of the Counselling Tutor Podcast, your hosts Rory Lees-Oakes and Ken Kelly take us through this week's three topics:
- Firstly, in 'Ethical, Sustainable Practice', they explore getting over cancellation guilt, looking at what therapist cancellation guilt means, why it arises, and how to approach it with compassion and professionalism.
- Then in 'Practice Matters', Rory speaks with Ruth Hill about supporting therapists and clients through perimenopause and post menopause - challenging outdated views and reframing this life stage as one of growth, not decline.
- And finally in 'Student Services', Rory and Ken discuss the phenomenon of doorknobbing - those last-minute disclosures from clients - and how to respond ethically and sensitively in practice.
In Episode 358 of the Counselling Tutor Podcast, your hosts Rory Lees-Oakes and Ken Kelly explore this week's three topics:
- Firstly, in 'Ethical, Sustainable Practice', we discuss letting go of the outcome in counselling - why embracing client autonomy matters.
- Then in 'Practice Matters', Rory speaks with Paula Jones about the Horn Effect and autism - how unconscious bias can shape perceptions of neurodivergent individuals.
- And finally, in 'Student Services', Rory and Ken explore not losing yourself in counselling training - staying authentic while growing through your studies.
In Episode 357 of the Counselling Tutor Podcast, your hosts Rory Lees-Oakes and Ken Kelly take us through this week's three topics:
- Firstly, in Ethical, Sustainable Practice, we discuss what to do when your usual supervisor isn't available. In planning for alternative supervision cover, we explore how to ensure you stay ethical and supported during supervisor absences.
- Then in 'Practice Matters', Rory speaks with Daragh Mac Loughlin from WebHealer about how to maximise your website presence and build a joined-up online identity across web and social platforms.
- And finally, in 'Student Services', Rory and Ken address a hot topic - should counselling students pay for a placement? With insight from Paul Cullen, they look at fairness, value for money, and what to consider if faced with this scenario.
In Episode 356 of the Counselling Tutor Podcast, your hosts Rory Lees-Oakes and Ken Kelly take us through this week's three topics:
- Firstly, in 'Ethical, Sustainable Practice', they explore the sensitive topic of lying in therapy, examining why clients may lie or conceal information through a trauma-informed perspective and how therapists can respond with compassion.
- Then in 'Practice Matters', Rory speaks with Andrew Kidd about EMDR therapy - what it is, how it works, and why it's considered a cutting-edge 21st-century therapeutic intervention.
- And finally in 'Student Services', Rory and Ken discuss the rising concern of AI and plagiarism in counselling training, including guidance for ethical use and how assessment may evolve.
In Episode 355 of the Counselling Tutor Podcast, your hosts Rory Lees-Oakes and Ken Kelly take us through this week's three topics:
- Firstly, in 'Ethical, Sustainable Practice', they discuss the importance of having a clinical will - why it matters, what it should include, and how it upholds your ethical responsibilities.
- Then in 'Practice Matters', Rory speaks with Ona Clark about the cost of caring - highlighting the emotional, financial, and systemic barriers that many face when training to become a counsellor.
- And finally, in 'Student Services', Rory and Ken explore erotic transference - how to recognise it, work with it ethically, and maintain clear professional boundaries.
In Episode 354 of the Counselling Tutor Podcast, your hosts Rory Lees-Oakes and Ken Kelly take us through this week's three topics:
- Firstly, in 'Ethical, Sustainable Practice', we explore the draft BACP Ethical Framework for 2025 - highlighting key proposed changes and what they might mean for practitioners.
- Then in 'Practice Matters', Rory speaks with Ruth Hill about REBT – Rational Emotive Behavioural Therapy – offering clear definitions and practical insights for working with beliefs and emotional responsibility.
- And finally in 'Student Services', Rory and Ken discuss how to navigate personal triggers in counselling training - and why these moments offer powerful opportunities for growth.
In this special edition of the Counselling Tutor Podcast, Rory Lees-Oakes is joined by Dr Liz Nicholl, Qualifications Development Manager at CPCAB, for an in-depth discussion on the newly relaunched Level 5 Diploma in Psychotherapeutic Counselling.
They explore how the qualification aligns with the SCoPEd framework (specifically Column B), what it offers learners beyond Level 4, and how it supports safe, ethical, and inclusive practice in increasingly complex counselling environments.
In Episode 353 of the Counselling Tutor Podcast, your hosts Rory Lees-Oakes and Ken Kelly take us through this week's three topics:
- Firstly, in 'Ethical, Sustainable Practice', we look at where autism meets attachment, understanding autism and attachment difficulties – and how similarities and overlaps in presentation can be misinterpreted and what this means for therapists.
- Then in 'Practice Matters', Rory speaks with Meg Moss, Head of Policy and Public Affairs at the NCPS, about relational safeguards in AI mental health tools – a timely discussion for any practitioner using or considering AI in practice.
- And finally in 'Student Services', our correspondent Sarah Henry joins Rory to make sense of frame of reference – a foundational concept in person-centred therapy.
In Episode 352 of the Counselling Tutor Podcast, your hosts Rory Lees-Oakes and Ken Kelly take us through this week's three topics:
- Firstly, in 'Ethical, Sustainable Practice', we explore the nuances of switching supervisors, including when change is necessary and how to manage transitions ethically and professionally.
- Then in 'Practice Matters', Rory speaks with Dr. Suzanne Degges-White about the deeply emotional issue of grandparent alienation – a growing concern with long-term implications for clients and families.
- And finally, in 'Student Services', Rory and Ken address how to navigate challenges with tutors, a topic frequently raised by students facing difficulties in training environments.
In Episode 351 of the Counselling Tutor Podcast, Rory Lees-Oakes and Ken Kelly take us through this week’s three topics:
- Firstly, in ‘Ethical, Sustainable Practice’, they explore the concept of moral injury in therapy - how it shows up in the therapy room and how to work with it ethically and compassionately.
- Then in ‘Practice Matters’, Rory speaks with counselling student and writer Nell Ash, whose upcoming book addresses how class and politics influence both therapy and training.
- And finally in ‘Student Services’, Rory and Ken discuss how to link theory to practice - bridging what you learn in the classroom with what happens in real-life therapy sessions.
In episode 350 of the Counselling Tutor Podcast, your hosts Rory Lees-Oakes and Ken Kelly take us through this week’s three topics:
- Firstly in ‘Ethical, Sustainable Practice’, we explore what it means to be starting as a counsellor – how to bridge the gap between qualification and confident, competent practice.
- Then in ‘Practice Matters’, Rory speaks with Mel Ciavucco, a specialist in disordered eating, body image, and weight stigma. They explore the psychological impact of weight loss drugs, how these medications may interact with disordered eating behaviours, and how counsellors can support clients ethically and without judgement.
- And lastly, in ‘Student Services’, we look at the concept of reasonable adjustments in counselling training and how learners can get the support they need.
In Episode 349 of the Counselling Tutor Podcast, your hosts Rory Lees-Oakes and Ken Kelly take us through this week’s three topics:
- Firstly, in ‘Ethical, Sustainable Practice’, we discuss how supervision shapes better therapists
- Then in ‘Practice Matters’, Rory speaks with Chloe Foster about her specialism in email counselling and the benefits and challenges of working through the written word.
- And finally, in ‘Student Services’, Rory and Ken explore the role of personal therapy in counsellor training and why it is an essential part of your development.
In episode 348 of the Counselling Tutor Podcast, your hosts Rory Lees-Oakes and Ken Kelly take us through this week’s three topics:
- Firstly in ‘Ethical, Sustainable Practice’, we look at the barriers to diversity in supervision – exploring the importance of cultural attunement, honesty, and managing bias.
- Then in ‘Practice Matters’, Rory speaks with Chris Metcalfe and Kent Riley from iMatta – a practice management platform for therapists looking to streamline their admin and protect client data.
- And lastly in ‘Student Services’, we discuss how non-judgement can be more than a counselling condition – it can become a valuable way of living.
In Episode 347 of the Counselling Tutor Podcast, your hosts Rory Lees-Oakes and Ken Kelly take us through this week’s three topics:
- Firstly, in ‘Ethical, Sustainable Practice’, we explore why autism-informed therapy matters and how inclusivity, legal responsibilities, and lived experience come together to strengthen practice.
- Then in ‘Practice Matters’, Rory speaks with Aisha Gordon-Hiles about financial resilience for counsellors. They look at the importance of sustainable fees, ethical pricing, and developing a healthy money mindset to support private practice.
- And finally in ‘Student Services’, Rory and Ken reflect on why counselling trainees often doubt themselves – and how reframing these doubts can support deeper learning and professional growth.
In Episode 346 of the Counselling Tutor Podcast, your hosts Rory Lees-Oakes and Ken Kelly take us through this week’s three topics:
- Firstly, in ‘Ethical, Sustainable Practice’, they explore trauma-informed practice, focusing specifically on triangulation and trauma — how this hidden dynamic shows up in therapy and why recognising it is vital for working safely and effectively with clients.
- Then in ‘Practice Matters’, Rory speaks with Mel Ciavucco, a counsellor, trainer, and specialist in domestic abuse, about her new CPD lecture, Domestic Abuse Awareness. They discuss working with both survivors and perpetrators, how coercive control operates, and the importance of understanding abuse through an intersectional lens.
- And finally, in ‘Student Services’, Rory and Ken explore why formal counselling training includes a full year focused entirely on counselling skills. They explain how these foundational skills form the bedrock of all therapeutic work and how they support students in becoming confident, competent practitioners.
In Episode 345 of the Counselling Tutor Podcast, your hosts Rory Lees-Oakes and Ken Kelly take us through this week’s three topics:
- Firstly, in ‘Ethical, Sustainable Practice’, we examine working with rehearsed material with Sarah Henry. How to identify it, what it means for the therapeutic relationship, and ethical ways to respond.
- Then in ‘Practice Matters’, Rory speaks with Laura Davies, who shares her personal experience of navigating perimenopause while working as a therapist, offering insights into how it affected her practice and ways she adapted.
- And finally in ‘Student Services’, Rory and Ken do a deep dive into the counselling skill of reflection. How it works, when to use it, and the important role it plays in helping clients connect with their emotions.
In Episode 344 of the Counselling Tutor Podcast, your hosts Rory Lees-Oakes and Ken Kelly take us through this week’s topics:
- Firstly, in ‘Ethical, Sustainable Practice’, we look at the ethical use of AI in therapy, highlighting potential risks and ethical responsibilities.
- Then in ‘Practice Matters’, Rory speaks with Caroline Evers Endicott about her lecture Introducing Therapy for Addiction - a vital area of practice that’s often underrepresented in core training.
- And finally, in ‘Student Services’, Rory and Ken discuss how learning never stops in counselling - and why planning your CPD is essential as you qualify and build your therapeutic career.
In Episode 343 of the Counselling Tutor Podcast, your hosts Rory Lees-Oakes and Ken Kelly take us through this week’s three topics:
- Firstly, in ‘Ethical, Sustainable Practice’, they explore the importance of having an online and telephone informed supervisor when you work in this way.
- Then in ‘Practice Matters’, Rory speaks with Sarah Henry about her concept of race and everyday friction - how these subtle, often hidden experiences shape identity and create barriers in life and therapy.
- And finally in ‘Student Services’, Rory and Ken discuss the significance of ending well in counselling training - how to navigate goodbyes with your peers and why these endings matter in your development.
In Episode 342 of the Counselling Tutor Podcast, your hosts Rory Lees-Oakes and Ken Kelly take us through this week’s three topics:
- Firstly in ‘Ethical, Sustainable Practice’, we explore the art of apologising as a counsellor - why it matters, how to do it effectively, and how to avoid making it about yourself.
- Then in ‘Practice Matters’, Rory speaks with Dr. Ruth Birkbeck about a powerful and often unspoken topic: shame in supervision. We explore what it looks like, how it can impact both supervision and client work, and what can be done to repair it.
- And lastly in ‘Student Services’, Rory and Ken look at how you can make the most of your academic break with creative learning - offering tips for staying engaged without overwhelming yourself or contaminating your core training.
In Episode 341 of the Counselling Tutor Podcast, your hosts Rory Lees-Oakes and Ken Kelly take us through this week’s three topics:
- Firstly in ‘Ethical, Sustainable Practice’, we explore the concept of everyday trauma.
- Then in ‘Practice Matters’, Rory speaks with Ellie Finch and Dr. Jo Griffin about their CPD lecture, which focuses on working with parents of children with disabilities, complex medical conditions, and special educational needs.
- And lastly in ‘Student Services’, Rory and Ken discuss what to do if you don’t get accepted onto the next stage of your counselling training, offering support and strategies for staying motivated.
In Episode 340 of the Counselling Tutor Podcast, your hosts Rory Lees-Oakes and Ken Kelly take us through this week’s three topics:
- Firstly, in ‘Ethical, Sustainable Practice’, we look at the question: Can clients ask you to delete their data? - covering legal, ethical, and practical considerations.
- Then in ‘Practice Matters’, Rory speaks with Jeremy Sachs about supporting male survivors of sexual abuse, with a focus on the intersectional challenges they face and practical considerations for therapists.
- And finally, in ‘Student Services’, Rory and Ken explain and simplify Carl Rogers' Seven Stages of Process, highlighting how this core theory maps client growth in therapy.
In Episode 339 of the Counselling Tutor Podcast, your hosts Rory Lees-Oakes and Ken Kelly take us through this week’s three topics:
- Firstly, in ‘Ethical, Sustainable Practice’, we explore the potential dangers of dual relationships in counselling and psychotherapy – how they arise, the ethical implications, and strategies to manage them appropriately.
- Then in ‘Practice Matters’, Rory speaks with Sally Anne Armitage about her lecture on practicing good self-care – a vital skill for therapists at every stage of their careers.
- And finally, in ‘Student Services’, Rory and Ken reflect on the importance of defining and understanding your personal counselling philosophy as a student and practitioner.
In Episode 338 of the Counselling Tutor Podcast, your hosts Rory Lees-Oakes and Ken Kelly take us through this week’s three topics:
- Firstly, in ‘Ethical, Sustainable Practice’, we explore the essential and sensitive topic of supporting suicidal clients – discussing how therapists can respond ethically and effectively, including risk assessment and safety planning.
- Then in ‘Practice Matters’, Rory speaks with Ruth Hill about her lecture on REBT for pain management and exercise – blending cognitive therapy with physical wellbeing to support client recovery.
- And lastly, in ‘Student Services’, Rory and Ken discuss the importance of receiving and using counselling skills feedback – helping you get the most from peer observations and strengthen your skills in training.
In Episode 337 of the Counselling Tutor Podcast, your hosts Rory Lees-Oakes and Ken Kelly take us through this week’s three topics:
- Firstly, in ‘Ethical, Sustainable Practice’, we explore how to talk to children about death - covering developmental understanding, appropriate language, and how to support children through bereavement.
- Then in ‘Practice Matters’, Rory speaks with Catherine Knibbs about changes in Apple’s encryption policy and what this means for therapists in terms of data protection and confidentiality.
- And lastly, in ‘Student Services’, Rory and Ken discuss how to respond when a client does not attend a session, particularly while you’re on placement.
In Episode 336 of the Counselling Tutor Podcast, your hosts Rory Lees-Oakes and Ken Kelly take us through this week’s three topics:
- Firstly, in ‘Ethical, Sustainable Practice’, we look at building your counselling CV – including key features to include, ways to stand out, and how to present yourself professionally.
- Then in ‘Practice Matters’, Rory speaks with Nicola Durrant about working with clients who have Pathological Demand Avoidance (PDA) – a profile on the autism spectrum that requires a unique and flexible therapeutic approach.
- And lastly in ‘Student Services’, Rory and Ken look at how to review a client’s progress in therapy – and why it’s an important part of ethical and effective practice.
In Episode 335 of the Counselling Tutor Podcast, your hosts Rory Lees-Oakes and Ken Kelly take us through this week’s three topics:
- Firstly in ‘Ethical, Sustainable Practice’, we look at extra-therapeutic factors in Supervision and how a client’s world outside the therapy room can influence outcomes.
- Then in ‘Practice Matters’, Rory interviews James Hawes, author of The Secret Lives of Men, exploring how we can better understand and support male clients in therapy.
- And lastly in ‘Student Services’, Rory and Ken talk about how to begin a counselling session, and what to say in those crucial opening moments.
In this special edition of the Counselling Tutor Podcast, your host Rory Lees-Oakes speaks with Daragh McLaughlin from Web Healer, a company specialising in website design for therapists, about how to create a reliable, professional online presence. Daragh shares his expert advice on avoiding common pitfalls when managing a website and digital assets.
In Episode 334 of the Counselling Tutor Podcast, your hosts Rory Lees-Oakes and Ken Kelly guide us through this week’s three topics:
- Firstly, in ‘Ethical, Sustainable Practice’, we look at managing triggers and flashbacks—offering insights into how counsellors can support clients dealing with trauma responses.
- Then, in ‘Practice Matters’, Rory speaks with Dr. Antje Bothin about her book Annika and the Treasure of Iceland and how it helps give a deeper understanding of selective mutism.
- And lastly, in ‘Student Services’, Rory and Ken discuss the ideal client load for student counsellors, offering guidance on balancing client hours in placement while maintaining self-care.
In Episode 333 of the Counselling Tutor Podcast, your hosts Rory Lees-Oakes and Ken Kelly, take us through this week’s three key topics:
- Firstly, in ‘Ethical, Sustainable Practice’ we look at understanding the Dunning-Kruger Effect in trauma-informed therapy and how it can impact professional competence.
- Then in ‘Practice Matters’, Rory interviews an autistic therapist who has chosen to stay anonymous to allow for an open and honest conversation. This discussion is about their lived experience and insights into neurodivergence in the profession.
- And lastly in ‘Student Services’, Rory and Ken look at the importance of referencing in assignments, avoiding common pitfalls, and using digital tools to ensure accuracy.
In Episode 332 of the Counselling Tutor Podcast, your hosts Rory Lees-Oakes and Ken Kelly guide you through this week’s three topics:
- Firstly, in ‘Ethical, Sustainable Practice’, we look at developing an online mindset to effectively work with clients online.
- Then, in ‘Practice Matters’, Rory speaks with Richard Miller, a counsellor, supervisor, and AI ethicist, about the ethical use of AI in therapy, its possibilities, challenges, and implications.
- Lastly, in ‘Student Services’, Rory and Ken discuss comparing ethical frameworks and why it’s an important exercise in counselling training.
In Episode 331 of the Counselling Tutor Podcast, your hosts Rory Lees-Oakes and Ken Kelly take us through this week’s three topics:
- Firstly, in ‘Ethical, Sustainable Practice’, we explore ethical dilemmas in supervision and discuss strategies for resolving them effectively.
- Then, in ‘Practice Matters’, Rory speaks with Dorothy Hodgkinson about working with clients who have ‘life-restricting’ conditions and how these conditions impact the therapeutic relationship.
- And lastly, in ‘Student Services’, Rory and Ken discuss the importance of challenging stereotypes in counselling training, offering insights into how counsellors can avoid stereotyping clients in their practice.
In Episode 330 of the Counselling Tutor Podcast, your hosts Rory Lees-Oakes and Ken Kelly take us through this week’s three topics:
- Firstly, in ‘Ethical, Sustainable Practice’, we explore the challenges and considerations of offering online therapy to clients abroad, particularly focusing on legal, ethical, and practical concerns.
- Then in ‘Practice Matters’, Rory speaks with Lohani Noor about the importance of psychosexual therapy and how therapists can gain the skills to support clients navigating intimate issues.
- Lastly, in ‘Student Services’, Rory and Ken provide practical advice for counselling students on meeting course requirements for supervision hours, emphasising the importance of documentation and careful planning.
In Episode 329 of the Counselling Tutor Podcast, your hosts Rory Lees-Oakes and Ken Kelly take us through this week’s three topics:
- Firstly in ‘Ethical, Sustainable Practice’, Rory and Ken discuss distinguishing PTSD and Complex PTSD, exploring the evolution of trauma therapy and the importance of understanding physiological responses in trauma-informed practice.
- Then in ‘Practice Matters’, Rory speaks with Susie Jamieson about how to navigate client complaints effectively, sharing practical strategies and personal experiences to help therapists be complaint-ready.
- And lastly in ‘Student Services’, Rory and Ken talk about managing overwhelm during observed skills sessions, providing tips for reducing anxiety and building confidence in counselling skills practice.
In this Special Edition of the Counselling Tutor Podcast, your host Rory Lees-Oakes speaks with Meg Moss from the National Counselling and Psychotherapy Society (NCPS) about how NHS policy design could support a wider range of therapeutic approaches.
In Episode 328 of the Counselling Tutor Podcast, your hosts Rory Lees-Oakes and Ken Kelly take us through this week’s three topics:
- Firstly, in ‘Ethical, Sustainable Practice’, we delve into professional letter writing by counsellors when communicating with other professionals.
- Then, in ‘Practice Matters’, Rory speaks with Claire Ratcliffe about relationship therapy using the developmental model, focusing on how couples evolve and how therapists can support growth at each stage.
- Lastly, in ‘Student Services’, Rory and Ken discuss how to choose the therapy modality that is the best fit for you as a future therapist.
In Episode 327 of the Counselling Tutor Podcast, your hosts Rory Lees-Oakes and Ken Kelly take us through this week’s three topics:
- Firstly, in ‘Ethical, Sustainable Practice’, we explore the 7-eyed model of supervision in clinical practice.
- Then, in ‘Practice Matters’, Rory speaks with Dr. Sonja Falck about facilitating personal development (PD) groups and their importance for both trainees and qualified counsellors.
- And lastly, in ‘Student Services’, Rory and Ken discuss the essential topic of accessing supervision before going into placement and why it's crucial to be well-prepared.
In Episode 326 of the Counselling Tutor Podcast, your hosts Rory Lees-Oakes and Ken Kelly take us through this week’s three topics:
- First up in Ethical, Sustainable Practice: Understanding ambiguous loss, its complexities, and how it presents in therapy.
- Then in Practice Matters: Rory speaks with Nina Solomons about the innovative use of virtual reality in therapy.
- Lastly, in Student Services: Rory and Ken discuss a critique of the person-centred model, addressing its strengths and limitations.
In Episode 325 of the Counselling Tutor Podcast, your hosts Rory Lees-Oakes and Ken Kelly take us through this week’s three topics:
- Firstly, in ‘Ethical, Sustainable Practice’, we look at applying Attachment Theory in therapy, and how understanding attachment styles helps in building a strong therapeutic relationship.
- Then in ‘Practice Matters’, Rory speaks with Bernie Wright and Lisa Smith about the connection between eating disorders, disordered eating, and neurodivergence.
- Lastly, in ‘Student Services, Rory and Ken discuss how counselling students can manage overwhelm and stay motivated through their training journey.
In Episode 324 of the Counselling Tutor Podcast, your hosts Rory Lees-Oakes and Ken Kelly take us through this week’s three topics:
- Firstly, in ‘Ethical, Sustainable Practice’, we look at managing risk in online therapy and the considerations for safe practice.
- Then in ‘Practice Matters’, Rory speaks with Meg Moss about the regulation of counselling and psychotherapy.
- And lastly, in ‘Student Services’, Rory and Ken discuss the importance of contracting in counselling.
In Episode 323 of the Counselling Tutor Podcast, your hosts Rory Lees-Oakes and Ken Kelly take us through this week’s three topics:
- Firstly in ‘Ethical, Sustainable Practice’, we look at engaging with clinical supervision and how to get the most from it.
- Then in ‘Practice Matters’, Rory speaks with Susie Jamerson in the second part of a three-part series exploring regulation in counselling and psychotherapy.
- And lastly in ‘Student Services’, Rory and Ken discuss powering up your counselling skills through observation.
In Episode 322 of the Counselling Tutor Podcast, your hosts Rory Lees-Oakes and Ken Kelly take us through this week’s three topics:
- Firstly, in ‘Ethical, Sustainable Practice’, we discuss the theory of mind and its implications in neurodivergence.
- Then, in ‘Practice Matters’, Rory speaks with Dr. Anne Guy about the pros and cons of statutory regulation in counselling and psychotherapy.
- And lastly, in ‘Student Services’, Rory and Ken explore managing dual relationships in counselling.
In Episode 321 of the Counselling Tutor Podcast, your hosts Rory Lees-Oakes and Ken Kelly guide us through this week’s three topics:
- Firstly in ‘Ethical, Sustainable Practice’ we look at effective online counselling for neurodivergent clients.
- Then in ‘Practice Matters’, Rory interviews Phil Mitchell about part two of his lecture on counselling boys and men.
- And lastly in ‘Student Services’, Rory and Ken discuss managing boundaries in counselling.
In Episode 320 of the Counselling Tutor Podcast, your hosts Rory Lees-Oakes and Ken Kelly are back with this week’s three topics:
- Firstly in ‘Ethical, Sustainable Practice’, Rory and Ken look at preparing the therapeutic environment for autism-friendly care.
- Then in ‘Practice Matters’ we have part 2 of last week’s interview with Susie Jamieson about her journey navigating the complaints process.
- And lastly in ‘Student Services’, we look at the skill of challenge in counselling.
In Episode 319 of the Counselling Tutor Podcast, your hosts Rory Lees-Oakes and Ken Kelly take us through this week’s three topics:
- Firstly in ‘Ethical, Sustainable Practice’, we look at understanding the Double Empathy Problem in Neurodivergent Therapy.
- Then in ‘Practice Matters’, we have the first part of an interview where Rory speaks with Susie Jamieson about her journey navigating the complaints process.
- And lastly in ‘Student Services’, Rory and Ken discuss developing your inner supervisor.
In Episode 318 of the Counselling Tutor Podcast, your hosts Rory Lees-Oakes and Ken Kelly take us through this week’s three topics:
- Firstly in ‘Ethical, Sustainable Practice’, we look at Autism and the Law
- Then in ‘Practice Matters’, Rory speaks with Caz Binstead about her book Relational Ethics in Psychotherapy and Counselling Private Practice: Solidarity, Compassion, Justice.
- And lastly in ‘Student Services’ we look at claiming expenses as a placement counsellor.
In Episode 317 of the Counselling Tutor Podcast, your hosts Rory Lees-Oakes and Ken Kelly look at this week’s three topics:
- Firstly in ‘Ethical, Sustainable Practice’, we look at the different strengths and challenges in autism that individuals may face.
- Then in ‘Practice Matters’, Rory speaks with Sharon McCormick about how an ethical EAP (Employment Assistant Program) operates and the benefits for both clients and employers.
- And lastly in ‘Student Services, Rory and Ken discuss closing a skills session.
In Episode 316 of the Counselling Tutor Podcast, your hosts Rory Lees-Oakes and Ken Kelly are back with this week’s three topics:
- Firstly in ‘Ethical, Sustainable Practice’, continuing with our new focus on neurodivergence we’ll look at how to see the individual, not the label.
- Then in ‘Practice Matters’, Rory speaks with Catherine Knibbs about how seemingly innocent online interactions can lead to child abuse.
- And lastly in ‘Student Services’, Rory and Ken look at listening to understand, not listening to respond.
In Episode 315 of the Counselling Tutor Podcast, your hosts Rory Lees-Oakes and Ken Kelly take us through this week’s three topics:
- First up in ‘Ethical, Sustainable Practice’, Rory and Ken discuss Neurodivergence-Affirming Psychotherapy.
- Then in ‘Practice Matters’, Rory speaks with Ellie Finch about using digital tools in online therapy sessions.
- And lastly in ‘Student Services’, we look at developing an emotional vocabulary.
In Episode 314 of the Counselling Tutor Podcast, your hosts Rory Lees-Oakes and Ken Kelly take us through this week’s three topics:
- Firstly in ‘Ethical, Sustainable Practice’, we look at understanding the diverse perspectives and definitions of trauma.
- Then in ‘Practice Matters’, Rory speaks with Nadine Pittam about how our use of language can develop and strengthen the therapeutic relationship.
- And lastly in ‘Student Services’, Rory and Ken talk about research projects, and more specifically, what should you research?
In Episode 313 of the Counselling Tutor Podcast, your hosts Rory Lees-Oakes and Ken Kelly take us through this week’s three topics:
- Firstly in ‘Ethical, Sustainable Practice’, Rory and Ken ask what is trauma-informed practice?
- Then in ‘Practice Matters’, Rory speaks with Alex Gulland about her transition from student to qualified counsellor.
- And lastly in ‘Student Services’, we look at barriers in communication.
In Episode 312 of the Counselling Tutor Podcast, your hosts Rory Lees-Oakes and Ken Kelly take us through this week’s three topics:
- Firstly in ‘Ethical, Sustainable Practice’, we look at working within your competence in counselling and psychotherapy.
- Then in ‘Practice Matters’, Rory speaks with Karen Moore about Critical Incident debriefing.
- And lastly in ‘Student Services’, Rory and Ken talk about using your ‘why’ when things get tough.
In Episode 311 of the Counselling Tutor Podcast, your hosts Rory Lees-Oakes and Ken Kelly take us through this week’s three topics:
- Firstly, in ‘Ethical, Sustainable Practice’, we look at creating your personal preparation plan for trauma-informed practice.
- Then in ‘Practice Matters’, Rory speaks with Sarah Henry about discussing racial identity respectfully.
- And lastly, in ‘Student Services’, Rory and Ken talk about confidentiality laws for therapists.
In Episode 310 of the Counselling Tutor Podcast, your hosts Rory Lees-Oakes and Ken Kelly take us through this week’s three topics:
- Firstly in ‘Ethical, Sustainable Practice’, we look at relational depth.
- Then in ‘Practice Matters’, Rory speaks with Dr Sonja Falck about the importance of personal development (PD) groups to a qualified practitioner.
- And lastly in ‘Student Services’, Rory and Ken talk about getting your reading list in order for the academic year.
In Episode 309 of the Counselling Tutor Podcast, your hosts Rory Lees-Oakes and Ken Kelly take us through this week’s three topics:
- Firstly in ‘Ethical, Sustainable Practice’, we look at online trauma therapy.
- Then in ‘Practice Matters’, Rory speaks with Amy Peters about exploring neurodiversity creatively.
- And lastly in ‘Student Services’, Rory and Ken talk about how to recognise vicarious trauma.
In Episode 308 of the Counselling Tutor Podcast, your hosts Rory Lees-Oakes and Ken Kelly take us through this week’s three topics:
- Firstly in ‘Ethical, Sustainable Practice’, we look at grounding techniques for trauma.
- Then in ‘Practice Matters’, Rory speaks with Dr Jessica J. Clapham about writing creatively in therapy and its benefits to well-being.
- And lastly in ‘Student Services’, Rory and Ken talk about trauma, and what to know as a counselling student.
In this Special Episode of the Counselling Tutor Podcast, your host Rory Lees-Oakes speaks with Kelly Budd from the Counselling and Psychotherapy Central Awarding Body (CPCAB), and Meg Moss from the National Counselling and Psychotherapy Society (NCPS) about the integrity of counselling training.
In Episode 307 of the Counselling Tutor Podcast, your hosts Rory Lees-Oakes and Ken Kelly are back with this week’s three topics:
- Firstly in ‘Ethical, Sustainable Practice’, we look at growing and evolving as a counselling practitioner across the arc of our practice.
- Then in ‘Practice Matters’, Rory speaks with Amy Peters about neurodivergent-affirming therapy practice.
- And lastly in ‘Student Services’, we look at reflecting on your counselling training journey.
In Episode 306 of the Counselling Tutor Podcast, your hosts Rory Lees-Oakes and Ken Kelly take us through this week’s three topics:
- Firstly in ‘Ethical, Sustainable Practice’, we look at recognising suicide risk in your therapy clients.
- Then in ‘Practice Matters’, Rory speaks with Lesley Simpson-Gray about unmasking neurodivergence and ethnicity using digital tools.
- And lastly in ‘Student Services’, Rory and Ken talk about how to give feedback to your tutors.
In Episode 305 of the Counselling Tutor Podcast, your hosts Rory Lees-Oakes and Ken Kelly take us through today’s three topics:
- Firstly in ‘Ethical, Sustainable Practice’, we look at the Equality Act and reasonable adjustments in counselling.
- Then in ‘Practice Matters’, Rory speaks with Claire Ratcliffe about her observations of being a couples counsellor.
- And lastly in ‘Student Services’, Rory and Ken discuss what to do about gifts from clients.
In Episode 304 of the Counselling Tutor Podcast, your hosts Rory Lees-Oakes and Ken Kelly are back for this week’s three topics:
- Firstly in ‘Ethical, Sustainable Practice’, Rory and Ken go through what to look for in an autism-informed supervisor.
- Then in ‘Practice Matters’, Rory speaks with Cathy Sansom about the psychotherapeutic needs of mothers returning to work after maternity leave.
- And lastly in ‘Student Services’, we look at things to consider when taking a course over the summer break between your studies.
In Episode 303 of the Counselling Tutor Podcast, your hosts Rory Lees-Oakes and Ken Kelly are back with this week’s three topics:
- Firstly in ‘Ethical, Sustainable Practice’, we look at safeguarding clients in online or phone therapy.
- Then in ‘Practice Matters’ Rory speaks with Claire Goodwin-Fee about her role as CEO of Frontline19, an organisation that provides confidential psychological support for people working in the NHS and other frontline services in the UK.
- And lastly in ‘Student Services’, Rory and Ken offer some tips on how you might go about getting the best books and resources to prepare for the next leg of your studies.
In Episode 302 of the Counselling Tutor Podcast, your hosts Rory Lees-Oakes and Ken Kelly are back with this week’s three topics:
- Firstly in ‘Ethical, Sustainable Practice’, we look at reducing shame within supervision.
- Then in ‘Practice Matters’, Rory speaks with Erene Hadjiioannou on pre-trial therapy.
- And lastly, we look at how to manage next level overwhelm in your counselling training.
In Episode 301 of the Counselling Tutor Podcast, your hosts Rory Lees-Oakes and Ken Kelly are back with this week’s three topics:
- Firstly in ‘Ethical, Sustainable Practice’, we look at why skills-first learning is the future for your professional development as a counsellor.
- Then in ‘Practice Matters’, Rory speaks with Renee McDonald about her book Rising with Butterfly Courage: Flipping the Script and Slowing Down to Speed Up.
- And lastly in ‘Student Services’, we look at preparing for the endings of your counselling course.
In Episode 300 of the Counselling Tutor Podcast, your hosts Rory Lees-Oakes and Ken Kelly are back with this week’s three topics:
- Firstly in ‘Ethical, Sustainable Practice’, we look at practicing online therapy with clients that are not in your country of residence, or if you’re in the United States, with clients not in your state.
- Then in ‘Practice Matters’, Ken speaks to our own Rory Lees-Oakes about a lecture he presented for the Counsellor CPD library, titled 5 Practical Trauma-Informed Interventions for Therapists.
- And lastly in ‘Student Services’, we look at preparing for your final submission of coursework.
In Episode 299 of the Counselling Tutor Podcast, your hosts Rory Lees-Oakes and Ken Kelly are back with this week’s three topics:
- Firstly in ‘Ethical, Sustainable Practice’, we look at the differences between counselling children and young people vs. adults.
- Then in ‘Practice Matters’, Rory speaks with Sally-Anne Armitage about taking risks in therapy.
- And lastly in ‘Student Services’, Rory and Ken look at the art of referencing in your assignments.
In Episode 298 of the Counselling Tutor Podcast, your hosts Rory Lees-Oakes and Ken Kelly are back with this week’s three topics:
- Firstly in ‘Ethical, Sustainable Practice’, we look at resilience and self-care for counsellors and therapists.
- Then in ‘Practice Matters’, Rory speaks with Sarah Henry about the significance of addressing racial identity.
- And lastly in ‘Student Services’, Rory and Ken discuss neurodivergence within PD groups.
In Episode 297 of the Counselling Tutor Podcast, your hosts Rory Lees-Oakes and Ken Kelly are back with this week’s three topics:
- Firstly in ‘Ethical, Sustainable Practice’, Rory and Ken discuss navigating and protecting yourself from scams targeting therapists.
- Then in ‘Practice Matters’, Rory speaks with Alex Gulland about how, as a filmmaker, she uses counselling skills to make sure the people she interviews are heard and understood.
- And lastly in ‘Student Services’, we look at finding your voice in supervision.
In this special episode of the Counselling Tutor Podcast, your host Rory Lees-Oakes speaks with Daragh McLoughlin from WebHealer about blogging for therapists.
In Episode 296 of the Counselling Tutor Podcast, your hosts Rory Lees-Oakes and Ken Kelly are back with this week’s three topics:
- First up in ‘Ethical, Sustainable Practice’, we look at counsellor safety and self-care strategies when navigating lone working.
- Then in ‘Practice Matters’, Rory speaks with Phil Mitchell about abuse by women towards men, delving into misandry and how it is viewed.
- And lastly in ‘Student Services’, Rory and Ken discuss preparing for your counselling residential experience.
In Episode 295 of the Counselling Tutor Podcast, your hosts Rory Lees-Oakes and Ken Kelly are back with this week’s three topics:
- Firstly in ‘Ethical, Sustainable Practice’, we look at crafting meaningful connections and enhancing that first contact with potential clients.
- Then in ‘Practice Matters’, Rory speaks with Kate Beckwith about how she uses the outdoors, animals, and art to provide children and young people with a unique therapeutic experience.
- And lastly in ‘Student Services’, Rory and Ken look at the challenges of being asked to have compulsory placement supervision with a certain supervisor.
In Episode 294 of the Counselling Tutor Podcast, your hosts Rory Lees-Oakes and Ken Kelly are back with this week’s three topics:
- First up in ‘Ethical, Sustainable Practice’, we look at how to unlock new clients through blogging.
- Then in ‘Practice Matters’, Rory speaks to Ruth Hill about how she combines REBT with fitness coaching.
- And lastly in ‘Student Services’, Rory and Ken look at linking theory to practice in counselling, or recognising where theory applies to actual practice in the therapy room.
In Episode 293 of the Counselling Tutor Podcast, your hosts Rory Lees-Oakes and Ken Kelly discuss this week’s three topics:
- Firstly in ‘Ethical, Sustainable Practice’, we take a deep dive into Employment Assistant Programs or EAP counselling.
- Then in ‘Practice Matters’, Rory speaks with Kassim Harunani about why you might hire an accountant as a counsellor in private practice.
- And lastly in ‘Student Services’, Rory and Ken look at how to handle, receive, and process negative feedback.
In Episode 292 of the Counselling Tutor Podcast, your hosts Rory Lees-Oakes and Ken Kelly are back with this week’s three topics:
- Firstly in ‘Ethical, Sustainable Practice’, we look at the ethical framework in supervision.
- Then in ‘Practice Matters’ Rory speaks with Kate Day about working with clients who self-harm in therapy.
- And lastly in ‘Student Services’, we look at the dos and don’ts of logging your client hours.
In Episode 291 of the Counselling Tutor Podcast, your hosts Rory Lees-Oakes and Ken Kelly are back with this week’s three topics:
- Firstly in ‘Ethical, Sustainable Practice’, we look at supervision – when is it time to change your supervisor, or get a second one?
- Then in ‘Practice Matters’, Rory speaks with Sian Clare about working with and counselling neurodivergent young people and students in education.
- And lastly in ‘Student Services’, we look at the use of AI in your studies, particularly transcribing skills sessions.
In Episode 290 of the Counselling Tutor Podcast, your hosts Rory Lees-Oakes and Ken Kelly are back with this week’s three topics:
- Firstly in ‘Ethical, Sustainable Practice’, we look at 5 reasons to become a trauma-informed therapist.
- Then in ‘Practice Matters’, Rory speaks with Dorothy Hodgkinson about working with transgender people.
- And lastly in ‘Student Services’, Rory and Ken discuss some of the reasons students should have their own insurance.
In Episode 289 of the Counselling Tutor Podcast, your hosts Rory Lees-Oakes and Ken Kelly discuss this week’s three topics:
- Firstly in ‘Ethical, Sustainable Practice’, we look at 5 reasons why become a clinical supervisor.
- Then in ‘Practice Matters’, Rory speaks with Ellie Finch and Lesley Simpson-Gray about using digital tools in online practice.
- And lastly in ‘Student Services’, Rory and Ken compare and contrast some of the main counselling theories.
In Episode 288 of the Counselling Tutor Podcast, your hosts Rory Lees-Oakes and Ken Kelly discuss this week’s three topics:
- First up in ‘Ethical, Sustainable Practice’, Rory and Ken discuss the 7 habits of an effective supervisor.
- Then in ‘Practice Matters’, Rory speaks with Lucy Mosha to get an insight into what it’s like to seek counselling for a loved one.
- And lastly in ‘Student Services’, we look at how counselling training affects your personal relationships.
In Episode 287 of the Counselling Tutor Podcast, your hosts Rory Lees-Oakes and Ken Kelly discuss this week’s three topics:
- Firstly in ‘Ethical, Sustainable Practice’, we look at new legislation around adoption counselling.
- Then in ‘Practice Matters’, Rory speaks with Julie Naylor about exploring the accreditation process.
- And lastly, in ‘Student Services’, we discuss joining a professional body from a student perspective.
The Counselling Tutor Podcast is back for Episode 286 as we enter 2024, and your hosts Rory Lees-Oakes and Ken Kelly are here with more topics and discussions:
- Firstly in ‘Ethical, Sustainable Practice’, we look at AI and how it might affect your practice, specifically with regards to confidentiality.
- Then in ‘Practice Matters’, Rory speaks with Amy Launder about supporting children of narcissistic parents during the divorce process.
- And lastly in ‘Student Services’, we look at planning your placement journey.
In this special episode of the Counselling Tutor Podcast, listen as your host Rory Lees-Oakes speaks with Dara McLaughlin from WebHealer about SEO for therapy websites.
In this week’s Special Episode of the Counselling Tutor Podcast, your host Rory Lees-Oakes speaks with Derek Cunningham of the CPCAB about their new information taster they're offering for people interested in becoming qualified counsellors.
In Episode 285 of the Counselling Tutor Podcast, your hosts Rory Lees-Oakes and Ken Kelly take us through this week’s three topics:
- Firstly in ‘Student Services’, Rory and Ken share their advice for getting your assignments in order.
- Then in ‘Ethical, Sustainable Practice’, we look at the ripple effect – how the abuse narratives in the media can generate specific inquiries.
- And lastly in ‘Practice Matters’, Rory speaks with Hilary McNair about canine therapy and her work with her own dog, Oscar.
In Episode 284 of the Counselling Tutor Podcast, your hosts Rory Lees-Oakes and Ken Kelly are back with this week’s three topics:
- Firstly in ‘Student Services’, Rory and Ken think about why we learn counselling theory.
- Then in ‘Ethical, Sustainable Practice’, we look at managing client breaks over the holidays.
- And lastly in ‘Practice Matters’, Rory speaks with Cath Knibbs about the dangers of having smart devices in the therapy room.
In Episode 283 of the Counselling Tutor Podcast, your hosts Rory Lees-Oakes and Ken Kelly take us through this week’s three topics:
- Firstly in ‘Student Services’, we look at idiosyncratic empathy.
- Then in ‘Ethical, Sustainable Practice’, Rory and Ken discuss the legal obligations of counsellors, particularly in relation to the coroner’s court.
- And lastly in this week’s ‘Practice Matters’, Rory interviews Nikaela Morrison about her work as a placement manager, and her project Trainbee.
In Episode 282 of the Counselling Tutor Podcast, your hosts Rory Lees-Oakes and Ken Kelly take us through this week’s three topics:
- Firstly in ‘Student Services’, Rory and Ken take us through some tips for choosing and using academic texts.
- Then in ‘Ethical, Sustainable Practice’, we look at some of the important things to consider about counselling from home.
- And lastly in ‘Practice Matters’, Rory speaks with Karen Moore about her work facilitating critical incident debriefing groups.
In Episode 281 of the Counselling Tutor Podcast, your hosts Rory Lees-Oakes and Ken Kelly take us through this week’s three topics:
- Up first in ‘Student Services’, Rory and Ken discuss the benefits of going back to the counselling fundamentals.
- Then in ‘Ethical, Sustainable Practice’, we look at the importance of cancellation policy for therapists.
- And lastly in ‘Practice Matters’, Rory speaks with Sassy Smith, founder of Aphantasia Academy, as she shares her insight into one specific area of neurodivergence, aphantasia – the inability to visualise.
In Episode 280 of the Counselling Tutor Podcast, your hosts Rory Lees-Oakes and Ken Kelly are back with this week’s three topics:
- Firstly in ‘Student Services’, Rory and Ken look at overcoming imposter syndrome as a therapist.
- Then in ‘Ethical, Sustainable Practice’, we discuss the hidden third person in the therapy room.
- And lastly in ‘Practice Matters’, Rory speaks with Lisa Mathurin about games in transactional analysis.
In Episode 279 of the Counselling Tutor Podcast, your hosts Rory Lees-Oakes and Ken Kelly are back with this week’s three topics:
- Firstly in ‘Student Services’, we look at recognising complicated grief.
- Then in ‘Ethical, Sustainable Practice’, should you consider becoming accredited?
- And lastly in ‘Practice Matters’, Rory speaks with counselling student Sinead Oskun about her ‘why’.
In this special episode of the Counselling Tutor Podcast, your host Rory Lees-Oakes is speaking with Daragh Mac Loughlin from WebHealer about why your professional online presence, specifically a website for your counselling practice, matters.
In Episode 278 of the Counselling Tutor Podcast, your hosts Rory Lees-Oakes and Ken Kelly are back with this week’s three topics:
- Firstly in ‘Student Services’, we look at how to deal with ethical issues in counselling.
- Then in ‘Ethical, Sustainable Practice’, should you register with the ICO?
- And lastly in ‘Practice Matters’, Rory speaks with Deb Barnard on emotions.
In Episode 277 of the Counselling Tutor Podcast, your hosts Rory Lees-Oakes and Ken Kelly take us through this week’s three topics:
- Firstly in ‘Student Services’, Rory and Ken look at confidentiality.
- Then in ‘Ethical, Sustainable Practice’, we look at discussing payment with your therapy clients, particularly if you are running your own practice.
- And lastly in ‘Practice Matters’, Rory speaks with Nicola Currie about the basics of starting a private practice.
In Episode 276 of the Counselling Tutor Podcast, your hosts Rory Lees-Oakes and Ken Kelly are back with this week’s three topics:
- First up in ‘Student Services’ we look at Carl Rogers’ potato observation, focusing on self-actualisation and hopes.
- Then in ‘Ethical, Sustainable Practice’, Rory and Ken speak about client-centred ethics and navigating outcomes and limitation in therapy.
- And lastly in ‘Practice Matters’, Rory speaks with Richard Rotberg on career counselling.
In Episode 275 of the Counselling Tutor Podcast, your hosts Rory Lees-Oakes and Ken Kelly take us through this week’s three topics:
- Firstly in ‘Student Services’, we look at why ethics matter.
- Then in ‘Ethical, Sustainable Counselling’ we look at tax for therapists and ways to get your tax affairs in order.
- And lastly in ‘Practice Matters’, Rory speaks with Chrissie Henson about her new book ‘A Look Inside the Therapy Room’, and how it can help students
In Episode 274 of the Counselling Tutor Podcast, your hosts Rory Lees-Oakes and Ken Kelly take us through this week’s three topics:
- Firstly in ‘Student Services’, we look at settling into a new counselling group.
- Then in ‘Ethical, Sustainable Counselling’, Rory and Ken discuss cultural competence in counselling.
- And lastly in ‘Practice Matters’, Rory speaks with Adam Cooper about his use of Cognitive Behavioural Hypnotherapy and other niches.
In Episode 273 of the Counselling Tutor Podcast, your hosts Rory Lees-Oakes and Ken Kelly discuss this week’s three topics:
- Firstly in ‘Student Services’ we discuss some things to consider when planning and completing your research project.
- Then in ‘Ethical, Sustainable Counselling’, Rory and Ken discuss how to develop a therapist network and why it is important.
- And lastly we have ‘Practice Matters’, where this week Rory spoke with Bay Whitaker about kink in the therapy room.
In Episode 272 of the Counselling Tutor Podcast, your hosts Rory Lees-Oakes and Ken Kelly are back with our latest three topics:
· Firstly in ‘Student Services’ we look at the myth of the core conditions.
· Then in ‘Ethical, Sustainable Counselling’, Rory and Ken discuss reasons you might, and might not, look into becoming an accredited counsellor.
· And lastly in ‘Practice Matters’, Rory speaks with Daniel Hand about using roleplaying games in therapy.
In Episode 271 of the Counselling Tutor Podcast, your hosts Rory Lees-Oakes and Ken Kelly offer a warm welcome back after the academic break. With the start of the new academic year, we also have two new sections in the podcast:
- We start off with ‘Student Services’, delving into the world of being a student and studying counselling - supporting you along that journey. Today Rory and Ken are discussing the role artificial intelligence (AI) might play in the future, and how counsellors can use AI ethically.
- Then we have ‘Ethical, Sustainable Counselling’, looking at the day-to-day running of a private practice – we begin by looking at how to deal with conflict between colleagues.
- And finally our CPD section ‘Practice Matters’ makes its return – Rory speaking with Melanie Halacre about disability and therapy.
In this Special Edition Podcast from Counselling Tutor, your host Rory Lees-Oakes speaks with Daragh Mac Loughlin from WebHealer about the importance of therapists having a professionally built website to promote their services, and instill confidence into potential clients.
In Episode 270 of the Counselling Tutor Podcast – the last of this academic year – your hosts Rory Lees-Oakes and Ken Kelly discuss three new topics:
- First up in ‘Theory in Practice’, we look at processing endings.
- Then in ‘Practice Today’, Rory and Ken discuss their opinions on looking up therapy clients on social media.
- And lastly in ‘Practice Matters’, Rory speaks with Carrie Kearns about pet bereavement.
In Episode 269 of the Counselling Tutor Podcast, your hosts Rory Lees-Oakes and Ken Kelly take us through this week’s three topics:
- Firstly in ‘Theory in Practice’, we look at compassion fatigue in counsellors.
- Then in ‘Practice Today’, we look at what to do when a client ‘ghosts’ you, and the thoughts and feelings this might bring.
- And lastly in ‘Practice Matters’, Rory speaks with Lisa Mathurin on hungers and strokes from transactional analysis.
In Episode 268 of the Counselling Tutor Podcast, your hosts, Rory Lees-Oakes and Ken Kelly bring us this week’s three topics:
- Firstly with ‘Theory in Practice’, we look at what is post-modern counselling and its theories.
- Then in ‘Practice Today’, listen as Rory and Ken discuss recovered memory therapy.
- And lastly in ‘Practice Matters’, Rory speaks with Mandy Gosling about the ABC grief model.
In Episode 267 of the Counselling Tutor Podcast, your hosts Rory Lees-Oakes and Ken Kelly discuss this week’s three topics:
- Firstly in ‘Theory in Practice’, how to write a counselling CV.
- Then in ‘Practice Today’, Rory and Ken discuss protecting yourself as a therapist.
- And lastly in this week’s ‘Practice Matters’, Rory speaks with Eniko Koncz about being an interpreter for counselling.
In Episode 266 of the Counselling Tutor Podcast, your hosts Rory Lees-Oakes and Ken Kelly are back with this week’s three topics:
- Up first in ‘Theory in Practice’, we look at moving to the next level in your counselling journey.
- Then in ‘Practice Today’, Rory and Ken have an interesting discussion about whether you can be too congruent.
- And lastly in ‘Practice Matters’, Rory speaks with Mamood Ahmad about anti-oppressive practice in counselling.
In Episode 265 of the Counselling Tutor Podcast, your hosts Rory Lees-Oakes and Ken Kelly are back with this week’s three topics:
- Firstly in ‘Theory in Practice’ we look at barriers to communication in counselling.
- Then in ‘Practice Today’, Rory and Ken discuss how to set up your therapy room.
- And lastly in ‘Practice Matters’, we see the end of our 6-week-long series looking into the National Counselling Society (soon to be the National Counselling and Psychotherapy Society) by speaking with CEO Jyles Robillard-Day.
In Episode 264 of the Counselling Tutor Podcast, your hosts Rory Lees-Oakes and Ken Kelly take us through this week’s three topics:
- Up first in ‘Theory in Practice’, we look at the philosophy of phenomenology and counselling.
- Then in ‘Practice Today’, Rory and Ken speak about counselling a client you don't like as a person.
- And lastly in ‘Practice Matters’, Rory is once again speaking with Meg Moss, head of policy and public affairs at the National Counselling Society (soon to be the National Counselling and Psychotherapy Society) about some of the campaigns the society is currently involved in.
In Episode 263 of the Counselling Tutor Podcast, your hosts Rory Lees-Oakes and Ken Kelly are back with this week’s three topics:
- Firstly in ‘Theory in Practice’ we look at passing your recorded or observed skills session.
- Then in ‘Practice Today’, Rory and Ken take us through what happens if you have to break confidentiality.
- And lastly in ‘Practice Matters’, Rory speaks with Camilla Firth, the head of member services, and Kate Mahoney, head of professional standards from the National Counselling Society about the NCS’s membership benefits.
In Episode 262 of the Counselling Tutor Podcast, your hosts Rory Lees-Oakes and Ken Kelly take us through this week’s three topics:
- Up first in ‘Theory in Practice’ Rory and Ken take us through the differences between eclectic, integrative and pluralistic counselling.
- Then in ‘Practice Today’, we look at the importance of psychological education for our clients.
- And lastly in ‘Practice Matters’, Rory speaks with Faye Blackwell, Head of Engagement and Development at the NCS (soon to be NCPS) about organisational membership and development.
In Episode 261 of the Counselling Tutor Podcast, your hosts Rory Lees-Oakes and Ken Kelly are back with this week’s three topics:
- First in ‘Theory in Practice’, we look closer at assessment in counselling.
- Then in ‘Practice Today’, we have Daragh Mac Loughlin from Web Healer speaking about the differences between a DIY website and a professionally built one.
- And lastly in ‘Practice Matters’, Rory continues the series by speaking with Rachel King, Professional Conduct Officer, and Meg Moss, Head of Policy and Public Affairs at the NCS (soon to be the NCPS), about professional conduct procedures for counsellors.
In Episode 260 of the Counselling Tutor Podcast, your hosts Rory Lees-Oakes and Ken Kelly take us through this week’s three topics:
- Firstly in ‘Theory in Practice’, Rory and Ken go through some things to think about when preparing for a research project.
- Then in ‘Practice Today’, we look at building your ethical framework into your supervision sessions.
- And lastly in ‘Practice Matters’, Rory speaks with Kate Mahoney from the National Counselling Society (soon to be the National Counselling and Psychotherapy Society) on the NCS accreditation and course recognition process.
This week we have a special episode of the Counselling Tutor Podcast with Rory speaking to Meg Moss, head of policy and public affairs at the National Counselling Society (NCS) – soon to be the National Counselling and Psychotherapy Society.
In Episode 259 of the Counselling Tutor Podcast, your hosts Rory Lees-Oakes and Ken Kelly are back with this week’s three topics:
· Firstly in ‘Theory in Practice’ we look at preparing your clients for breaks.
· Then in ‘Practice Today’, Rory and Ken discuss understanding your ethical body’s complaints procedures.
· And lastly in ‘Practice Matters’, Rory speaks with Claire Alison Hams on counselling cult survivors.
In Episode 258 of the Counselling Tutor Podcast, your hosts Rory Lees-Oakes and Ken Kelly are back with this week’s three topics:
· Firstly in ‘Theory in Practice’, we look at psychological contact.
· Then in ‘Practice Today’, Rory and Ken share their thoughts on touch in therapy.
· And finally in ‘Practice Matters’, Rory speaks with Sally-Anne Armitage on managing risk.
Scope of Practice and Education (SCoPEd) is a framework that sets out the core training requirements and practice standards for counsellors and psychotherapists working with adult clients. It has been developed by six professional bodies that hold registers accredited by the Professional Standards Authority (PSA):
· Association of Christians in Counselling and Linked Professions (ACC)
· British Association for Counselling and Psychotherapy (BACP)
· British Psychoanalytic Council (BPC)
· Human Givens Institute (HGI)
· National Counselling Society (NCS – shortly to change its name to the national Counselling & Psychotherapy Society: NCPS)
· UK Council for Psychotherapy (UKCP).
In Episode 257 of the Counselling Tutor Podcast, your hosts Rory Lees-Oakes and Ken Kelly take us through this week’s three topics:
· First up in ‘Theory in Practice’ we look at Locus of Evaluation.
· Then in ‘Practice Today’, we think about what you might do when meeting a client in a social setting.
· And lastly in ‘Practice Matters’, Rory speaks with Tayba Azim on counselling Muslim clients and supporting them with their mental health.
In Episode 256 of the Counselling Tutor Podcast, your hosts Rory Lees-Oakes and Ken Kelly are back with this week’s three topics:
· Firstly in ‘Theory in Practice’, we look at building rapport.
· Then in ‘Practice Today’, Rory and Ken discuss transitional objects.
· And finally in ‘Practice Matters’, Rory speaks with Sean Connolly about TEAM CBT.
In this Special Episode of the Counselling Tutor Podcast, your host Rory Lees-Oakes speaks with Letizia Perna, the Director of Services and Service Transformation for the charity Winston’s Wish.
In Episode 255 of the Counselling Tutor Podcast, your hosts Rory Lees-Oakes and Ken Kelly take us through this week’s three topics:
· Firstly in ‘Theory in Practice’, we look at note-keeping in counselling agencies, in particular the different expectations you might find from an agency or placement when storing notes.
· Then in ‘Practice Today’, Rory and Ken discuss whether you can be a member of more than one ethical body, and why you might consider this an option.
· And lastly in ‘Practice Matters’, Rory speaks with Josephine Hughes on overcoming procrastination and perfectionism for counsellors.
In Episode 254 of the Counselling Tutor Podcast, your hosts Rory Lees-Oakes and Ken Kelly take us through this week’s three topics:
· First up in ‘Theory in Practice’ we look at the art of closing a therapy session.
· Then in ‘Practice Today’, Rory and Ken discuss things you might consider when it comes to counselling celebrities.
· Then in ‘Practice Matters’, Rory speaks with Catherine Samson about her work looking into the psychotherapeutic needs of mothers returning to work after maternity leave.
In Episode 253 of the Counselling Tutor Podcast, your hosts Rory Lees-Oakes and Ken Kelly take us through this week’s three topics:
- Firstly in ‘Theory in Practice’, we look at different types of counselling supervision.
- Then in ‘Practice Today’, Rory and Ken discuss counselling in tough economic times.
- And lastly in ‘Practice Matters’, Rory speaks with Ruth Hill about Rational Emotive Behaviour Therapy (REBT).
In Episode 252 of the Counselling Tutor Podcast, your hosts Rory Lees-Oakes and Ken Kelly are back with this week’s three topics:
- Up first in ‘Theory in Practice’, we’ll take a closer look at helping clients with trauma bonding.
- Then in ‘Practice Today’, we discuss changing your ethical body.
- And lastly in ‘Practice Matters’, Rory speaks with Sally-Anne Armitage about the use of empathy in counselling.
In Episode 251 of the Counselling Tutor Podcast, your hosts Rory Lees-Oakes and Ken Kelly are back with this week’s three topics:
- Firstly in ‘Theory in Practice’ we look at the four pillars of Gestalt therapy.
- Then in ‘Practice Today’ Rory and Ken will discuss sexual intimacy.
- Lastly in ‘Practice Matters’, Rory speaks with Lou Lebentz on the difference between PTSD and complex PTSD (CPTSD).
In Episode 250 of the Counselling Tutor Podcast, your hosts Rory Lees-Oakes and Ken Kelly discuss this week’s three topics:
- In ‘Theory in Practice’ we’ll look at Donald Winnicott’s theory of true and false self.
- Then in ‘Practice Today’, Rory and Ken discuss protecting your data online.
- And finally in ‘Practice Matters’, Rory speaks with Paula Mayes on counselling terminally ill clients.
Starting off 2023 with Episode 249 of the Counselling Tutor Podcast, your hosts Rory Lees-Oakes and Ken Kelly return with two familiar topics – and a new addition, ‘Practice Today’, where we look at contemporary developments and challenges you may face in the therapy room.
In today’s podcast:
- Returning with ‘Theory in Practice’, today we look at Elisabeth Kübler-Ross’ stages of grief.
- Then in our new section ‘Practice Today’ we look at working with interpreters in therapy.
- And finally, returning once again is ‘Practice Matters’ where today Rory speaks with Allan Frater about waking dreams.
In Episode 248 of the Counselling Tutor Podcast, your hosts Rory Lees-Oakes and Ken Kelly take us through this week’s three topics:
- In ‘Theory in Practice’, we look at evaluating and improving your counselling skills.
- Then in ‘Practice Partner’, Rory and Ken discuss SEO for therapists and counsellors (in particular how to use local SEO effectively).
- And finally in ‘Practice Matters’, Rory speaks with Dr. Jeremy Holmes on attachment theory and research in day-to-day counselling.
In Episode 247 of the Counselling Tutor Podcast, your hosts Rory Lees-Oakes and Ken Kelly are back with this week’s three topics:
- First in ‘Theory in Practice’ we’ll look at Petruska Clarkson’s 7-level model.
- Then in ‘Practice Partner’ Rory and Ken discuss how you can begin to build yourself a referral network.
- And finally in ‘Practice Matters’, Rory speaks with Sam Shiel about counselling for adoption.
In Episode 246 of the Counselling Tutor Podcast, your hosts Rory Lees-Oakes and Ken Kelly are back to discuss this week’s three topics:
- Firstly in ‘Theory in Practice’ we’ll look at Petruska Clarkson’s 5 Relationship Model.
- Then in ‘Practice Partner’, Rory and Ken discuss options when it comes to paid advertising for therapists, and the possible pros and cons.
- Then lastly in ‘Practice Matters’, Rory speaks with Dr. Dwight Turner about working with otherness.
In Episode 245 of the Counselling Tutor Podcast, your hosts Rory Lees-Oakes and Ken Kelly are back with this week’s three topics:
- Firstly in ‘Theory in Practice’ we’ll look at the stages of counselling.
- Then in ‘Practice Partner’, Rory and Ken discuss digital tools you may want to look into when it comes to running your own practice.
- And lastly in ‘Practice Matters’, Rory speaks with Carley Symes about what it is like to be a young counsellor in today’s world.
In Episode 244 of the Counselling Tutor Podcast, your hosts Rory Lees-Oakes and Ken Kelly are back with this week’s three topics:
- Firstly in ‘Theory in Practice’ we talk about developing your internal supervisor.
- Then in ‘Practice Partner’ Rory and Ken discuss how we keep, store and manage data.
- And lastly in ‘Practice Matters’ Rory speaks with Amy Launder on how to deal with guilt in therapy.
In Episode 243 of the Counselling Tutor Podcast, your hosts Rory Lees-Oakes and Ken Kelly are back with this week’s three topics:
- First in ‘Theory in Practice’ we look at contracting in counselling.
- Then in ‘Practice Partner’ Rory and Ken discuss portfolio practice.
- And lastly in ‘Practice Matters’, Rory speaks with Dr. John Wilson on adverse circumstances that complicate grief.
In this special edition episode of the Counselling Tutor Podcast, Rory Lees-Oakes speaks with Phil Harvey, the clinical lead for training at Kooth PLC with several years experience as an online counsellor at Kooth, and John Stones, who works with Kooth’s clinical governance team and supports Kooth’s practitioners with their training and development.
In Episode 242 of the Counselling Tutor Podcast, your hosts Rory Lees-Oakes and Ken Kelly are back with this week’s three topics:
- Firstly in ‘Theory in Practice’ we’ll be looking at irrational beliefs.
- Then in ‘Practice Partner’, Rory and Ken discuss how we go from an inquiry to a client booking.
- And lastly in ‘Practice Matters’, Rory speaks with Erene Hadjiioannou about the changes made to pre-trial therapy guidance.
In Episode 241 of the Counselling Tutor Podcast, your hosts Rory Lees-Oakes and Ken Kelly take us through this week’s three topics:
- Starting with ‘Theory in Practice’, we’ll look at ethics and their importance in counselling.
- Next in ‘Practice Partner’, we have Daragh Mac Loughlin from webhealer.net to talk about how to build a therapist website.
- And lastly in ‘Practice Matters’, Rory speaks with Dr Danielle Mills about equine therapy.
In Episode 240 of the Counselling Tutor Podcast, your hosts Rory Lees-Oakes and Ken Kelly are back with this week’s three topics:
- Starting with ‘Theory in Practice’, we look at Maslow’s hierarchy of needs.
- Then in ‘Practice Partner’ we pick up from last week’s discussion about directory listings, and how you can make yourself stand out.
- And lastly in ‘Practice Matters’, Rory speaks with a Counselling Tutor favourite, Amy Launder, on counselling clients with body dysmorphia and negative body image.
In Episode 239 of the Counselling Tutor Podcast, your hosts Rory Lees-Oakes and Ken Kelly take us through this week’s three topics:
- Firstly, in ‘Theory in Practice’ we look at the fully functioning person according to Carl Rogers.
- Then in ‘Practice Partner’, Rory and Ken look at ways to get the best from a directory listing.
- Lastly in ‘Practice Matters’, Rory speaks with Barbara Pidgeon about breathwork for counsellors.
In Episode 238 of the Counselling Tutor Podcast, your hosts Rory Lees-Oakes and Ken Kelly take us through this week’s three topics:
- In ‘Theory in Practice’, we’ll look at boundaries in counselling.
- Then in ‘Practice Partner’, Rory and Ken discuss how you might go about getting counselling clients – or more importantly, how clients might find you.
- And lastly in ‘Practice Matters’, Rory is speaking with Mamood Ahmad about race, culture and anti-discrimination in counselling.
In Episode 237 of the Counselling Tutor Podcast, your hosts Rory Lees-Oakes and Ken Kelly take us through this week’s three topics:
- In ‘Theory in Practice’, we’ll look at frame of reference.
- Then in ‘Practice Partner’ Rory and Ken will discuss record keeping in counselling.
- And lastly in ‘Practice Matters’, Rory speaks with Ali Bate on integrative counselling.
In Episode 236 of the Counselling Tutor Podcast, your hosts Rory Lees-Oakes and Ken Kelly are back with this week’s three topics:
- Starting with ‘Theory in Practice’ we’ll look at conditions of worth.
- Then in ‘Practice Partner’ we continue last week’s discussion on business planning.
- And lastly in ‘Practice Matters’, Rory speaks with Kel O’Neill about working with eating disorders in therapy.
In Episode 235 of the Counselling Tutor Podcast, your hosts Rory Lees-Oakes and Ken Kelly are back with this week’s three topics:
- Firstly in ‘Theory in Practice’, we look at interjected values.
- Then in ‘Practice Partner’, Rory and Ken discuss making a counselling business plan.
- And lastly in ‘Practice Matters’, Rory speaks with Dr. Jessica Bockler about Carl Gustav Jung’s theories on ego and self.
Back with a new season of the Counselling Tutor Podcast after the academic break, your hosts Rory Lees-Oakes and Ken Kelly are thrilled to be back with today’s three topics – two of which are brand new:
- We start with ‘Theory in Practice’, looking closer at how theories you learn apply within sessions. This week we focus on how to use the core conditions.
- Then in ‘Practice Partner’, Rory and Ken will discuss aspects of setting up your own private practice, focusing this week on having a business mindset.
- And lastly ‘Practice Matters’ returns, where this week Rory speaks with Christine Shore about using humour in therapy.
Back with a new season of the Counselling Tutor Podcast after the academic break, your hosts Rory Lees-Oakes and Ken Kelly are thrilled to be back with today’s three topics – two of which are brand new:
- We start with ‘Theory in Practice’, looking closer at how theories you learn apply within sessions. This week we focus on how to use the core conditions.
- Then in ‘Practice Partner’, Rory and Ken will discuss aspects of setting up your own private practice, focusing this week on having a business mindset.
- And lastly ‘Practice Matters’ returns, where this week Rory speaks with Christine Shore about using humour in therapy.
In Episode 233 of the Counselling Tutor Podcast – the last of the season – your hosts Rory Lees-Oakes and Ken Kelly take us through today’s three topics:
- In ‘Counselling Foundations’, we look at phenomenology – the philosophy of perception.
- Then in ‘Focus on Self’, we think about new beginnings.
- And lastly in ‘Practice Matters’, Rory speaks with Sally-Anne Armitage about using the skill of focusing in counselling.
In Episode 232 of the Counselling Tutor Podcast, your hosts Rory Lees-Oakes and Ken Kelly are back with this week’s three topics:
- In ‘Counselling Foundations’ we look at Albert Ellis’ REBT model.
- Then in ‘Focus on Self’ we think about what to do when a client asks us a question.
- And finally in ‘Practice Matters’, Rory speaks with Erene Hadjiioannou on the impact and ways of managing vicarious trauma.
In Episode 231 of the Counselling Tutor Podcast, join hosts Rory Lees-Oakes and Ken Kelly as they take us through this week’s three topics:
- In ‘Counselling Foundations’, we look at the 6 necessary and sufficient conditions for therapeutic change.
- Next in ‘Focus on Self’, what can we class as appropriate self-disclosure?
- And finally in ‘Practice Matters’, Rory speaks with Dr. Mary Goss on working with couples in therapy.
In Episode 230 of the Counselling Tutor Podcast, your hosts Rory Lees-Oakes and Ken Kelly take us through this week’s three topics:
- First, in ‘Counselling Foundations', we look at existential therapy.
- Then in ‘Focus on Self’, Rory and Ken discuss adapting your therapeutic model.
- And lastly in ‘Practice Matters’, Rory speaks with Dr Pia Callesen about metacognitive therapy.
In this Special Edition Podcast, Rory Lees-Oakes speaks to Kate Day about the importance of training in adolescent therapy.
In Episode 229 of the Counselling Tutor Podcast, your hosts Rory Lees-Oaks and Ken Kelly take us through today’s three topics:
- In ‘Counselling Foundations’, we’ll look at the seven stages of process.
- Then in ‘Focus on Self’, we think about the difference between reflective and reflexive, and the importance of both.
- And lastly in ‘Practice Matters’, Rory speaks with Amy Launder on counselling victims of narcissistic abuse.
In Episode 228 of the Counselling Tutor Podcast, your hosts Rory Lees-Oakes and Ken Kelly are back with this week’s 3 topics:
- In ‘Counselling Foundations’, Rory and Ken discuss attachment theory and the importance of recognising your own attachment style.
- Then in ‘Focus on Self’, we’ll look at the four stages of competence.
- And lastly in ‘Practice Matters’, Rory speaks with Rachel Eastop and Moira Hood on inner child work.
In Episode 227 of the Counselling Tutor Podcast, your hosts Rory Lees-Oakes and Ken Kelly discuss this week’s three topics:
- In ‘Counselling Foundations’, we’ll look at transference and counter transference.
- Then in ‘Focus on Self’, we’ll think about why you might consider changing your supervisor.
- And lastly in ‘Practice Matters’ Rory continues his discussion with Quinn Dexter, speaking in this episode about accommodations to consider when counselling autistic clients.
In Episode 226 of the Counselling Tutor Podcast, your hosts Rory Lees-Oakes and Ken Kelly are back with this week’s three topics:
- In ‘Counselling Foundations’, Rory and Ken discuss the dreaded 19 Propositions of Carl Rogers.
- Then in ‘Focus on Self’, we look at recognising vicarious trauma.
- And finally in ‘Practice Matters’, Rory speaks to Quinn Dexter on why we shouldn’t use person -first language to describe autistic people.
In Episode 225 of the Counselling Tutor Podcast, your hosts Rory Lees-Oakes and Ken Kelly are back with this week’s three topics:
- In ‘Counselling Foundations’, we’ll discuss configurations of self.
- Then in ‘Focus on Self’, we’ll think about whether you might be ready to become a clinical supervisor, and why you should consider it.
- Finally in ‘Practice Matters’, Rory speaks with Wayne Lawrence about his amazing work counselling in a prison environment.
In Episode 224 of the Counselling Tutor Podcast, your hosts Rory Lees-Oakes and Ken Kelly discuss this week’s three topics:
- In ‘Counselling Foundations’, we look at life scripts from transactional analysis.
- Then in ‘Focus on Self’, we’ll look at making sure you’re not defining yourself by the work you do.
- And lastly in ‘Practice Matters’, Rory speaks with Amy Launder about narcissistic personality disorder.
In this special episode of the Counselling Tutor Podcast, Rory Lees-Oakes speaks with Derek Cunningham from the CPCAB on choosing the right courses to become a fully qualified counsellor.
In Episode 223 of the Counselling Tutor Podcast, your hosts Rory Lees-Oakes and Ken Kelly are back with three new topics:
- In this week’s ‘Counselling Foundations’, we look at the ego states in transactional analysis.
- Then in ‘Focus on Self’, we’ll think about self-regulation within our sessions.
- And finally in ‘Practice Matters’, Rory speaks with Del Beach-Campbell on counselling male survivors of sexual abuse.
In Episode 222 of the Counselling Tutor Podcast, your hosts Rory Lees-Oakes and Ken Kelly are back with this week’s three topics:
- In ‘Counselling Foundations’ – counselling and the law.
- Then in ‘Focus on Self’, Rory and Ken discuss creating a safe emotional space for clients.
- And finally in ‘Practice Matters’, Ken speaks with Amy Launder on time-limited counselling in the NHS.
In Episode 221 of the Counselling Tutor Podcast, your hosts Rory Lees-Oakes and Ken Kelly are back with three more topics:
- In ‘Counselling Foundations’, we’ll talk about the dreaded task of writing a case study.
- Next in ‘Focus on Self’, the option of taking a break.
- And finally in ‘Practice Matters’, Rory speaks with Dr. Ian Newey about a book called The Power Threat Meaning Framework by Lucy Johnstone and Mary Boyle.
In Episode 220 of the Counselling Tutor Podcast, your hosts Rory Lees-Oakes and Ken Kelly take us through this week’s three topics:
- In ‘Counselling Foundations’ Rory and Ken look at equality and diversity.
- Then in ‘Focus on Self’, we'll be thinking about supervision and being sure you have the right clinical supervisor for you.
- Lastly in ‘Practice Matters’, Rory speaks with Amy Launder about counselling millennial clients.
In Episode 219 of the Counselling Tutor Podcast, your hosts Rory Lees-Oakes and Ken Kelly go through this week’s three topics:
- In ‘Counselling Foundations’ we’ll be looking at note-taking.
- Then in ‘Focus on Self’, think about how to develop your network.
- And lastly in ‘Practice Matters’, Rory speaks with Professor Mick Cooper on common factors in counselling.
In this week’s special edition of the Counselling Tutor Podcast, Rory Lees-Oakes speaks with Jyles Robillard- Day of the National Counselling Society (NCS) about some new changes within the NCS that you can look forward to:
- A change in name – from the National Counselling Society (NCS) to the National Counselling and Psychotherapy Society (NCPS).
- The launching of a new website.
- And finally, a new sub-register.
In Episode 218 of the Counselling Tutor Podcast, Rory Lees-Oakes and Ken Kelly discuss this week’s three topics:
- In ‘Counselling Foundations’, we’ll look at the importance of knowing why you want to work in the service of others.
- Then in ‘Focus on Self’, Rory and Ken discuss learning from our mistakes.
And lastly in ‘Practice Matters’, Rory speaks with Marion Elkin-Greener about counselling clients with addiction.
In episode 217 of the Counselling Tutor Podcast, your hosts Rory Lees-Oakes and Ken Kelly are back discussing three more topics:
- In this week’s ‘Counselling Foundations’, we’ll look at radical empathy.
- Next in ‘Focus on Self’, Rory and Ken discuss how to plan your CPD.
- And lastly, Rory speaks with Dr. John Wilson on bereavement due to COVID-19.
In Episode 216 of the Counselling Tutor Podcast, Rory Lees-Oakes and Ken Kelly discuss this week’s three topics:
- In ‘Counselling Foundations’ we’ll look at the skill of challenging.
- Then in ‘Focus on Self’, we move on to how to deal with friends and acquaintances once they discover your career.
- And finally in ‘Practice Matters’, Rory speaks with Jo Mountain about insurance for counsellors and psychotherapists.
In Episode 215 of the Counselling Tutor Podcast, Rory Lees-Oakes and Ken Kelly return with this week’s three topics:
- In ‘Counselling Foundations’, we talk about endings.
- Next in ‘Focus on Self’, we look at your career as a therapist.
- And lastly in ‘Practice Matters’, Rory speaks with Erene Hadjiioannou on pre-trial therapy.
In Episode 214 of the Counselling Tutor Podcast, listen as Rory Lees-Oakes and Ken Kelly discuss this week’s three topics:
- In this episode’s ‘Counselling Foundations’, Rory and Ken look at the skill of appropriate questioning.
- Next in ‘Focus on Self’, we think about leaving client material behind.
- And lastly in ‘Practice Matters’, Rory speaks with James Taylor on social media considerations for therapists, with a focus on online etiquette.
In Episode 213 of the Counselling Tutor Podcast, Rory Lees-Oakes and Ken Kelly discuss this week’s three new topics:
- In ‘Counselling Foundations’, Rory and Ken explore the relational depth.
- Then in ‘Focus on Self’, we think about failure.
- And finally in this week’s ‘Practice Matters’, Rory speaks with Daniel Hand on introducing role-playing games (RPGs) in therapy.
In Episode 212 of the Counselling Tutor Podcast, Rory Lees-Oakes and Ken Kelly take us through this week’s three topics:
- In this episode’s ‘Counselling Foundations’, Rory and Ken discuss the skill of summarising.
- Next, in ‘Focus on Self’ we’ll look at managing our personal relationships.
- And finally in ‘Practice Matters’, Rory speaks with Michelle Harrison-Lee on psychosexual therapy.
In Episode 211 of the Counselling Tutor Podcast, your hosts Rory Lees-Oakes and Ken Kelly return with three more topics:
- First in ‘Counselling Foundations’, Ken and Rory will go over self-disclosure and immediacy in counselling.
- Then in ‘Focus on Self’, we’ll look at choosing your ethical body.
- And finally in this week’s ‘Practice Matters’, Ken will speak with our very own Rory Lees-Oakes on his upcoming lecture about engaging with supervision.
In Episode 210 of the Counselling Tutor Podcast, your hosts Rory Lees-Oakes and Ken Kelly discuss this week’s three topics:
- In this episode’s ‘Counselling Foundations’, we look at attending when a client first arrives.
- Next in ‘Focus on Self’, Rory and Ken discuss crying with your client.
- And lastly in ‘Practice Matters’, Rory speaks with Sally Openshaw on erotic transference in therapy.
In Episode 209 of the Counselling Tutor Podcast, Rory Lees-Oakes and Ken Kelly discuss this week’s three topics:
- In ‘Counselling Foundations’ this week, Rory and Ken look at the therapeutic relationship.
- Next in ‘Focus on Self’, we look at counselling through your own adversity.
- And finally, in ‘Practice Matters’, Rory speaks with Caroline Peacock about working as a school counsellor with children and young people.
In Episode 208 of the Counselling Tutor Podcast, Rory Lees-Oakes and Ken Kelly discuss this week’s three topics:
- Today’s ‘Counselling Foundations’ will discuss the importance of rapport in counselling.
- Next in ‘Focus on Self’, we’ll discuss managing your inner therapist.
- And finally in ‘Practice Matters’, Rory speaks with Kate Williams on relational depth and trauma.
In Episode 207 of the Counselling Tutor Podcast, Rory Lees-Oakes and Ken Kelly return with your favourite three sections:
- This week’s ‘Counselling Foundations’ looks at the first counselling sessions - both your first session as a counsellor and the first session with each client.
- Then in ‘Focus on Self’, Rory and Ken discuss the wounded healer counsellor.
- And finally in this week’s ‘Practice Matters’, Rory speaks with Tamara Howell about paperwork.
In Episode 206 of the Counselling Tutor Podcast, hosts Rory Lees-Oakes and Ken Kelly discuss three more topics to help you with your counselling journey.
- ‘Counselling Foundations’ returns with this week’s topic, contracting in counselling and its importance.
- ‘Focus on Self’ is looking at clothing in counselling.
- And finally, ‘Practice Matters’ is back with Rory speaking to Martin Smith about compassion fatigue in counselling.
Returning with Episode 205 of the Counselling Tutor Podcast, Rory Lees-Oakes and Ken Kelly discuss three more topics for you to listen in on:
- In this week’s ‘Counselling Foundations’ we’ll be focusing on the work of Sigmund Freud on id, ego and superego.
- Next in ‘Focus on Self’ we’ll be exploring the purpose of personal therapy.
- And finally in ‘Practice Matters’ this week, Rory speaks with Robyn Symonds on how to become a counsellor in the US, and how training and practice differ from the UK.
In this week’s Special Addition Podcast, Rory Lees-Oakes speaks with Heather Price of the Counselling and Psychotherapy Central Awarding Body (CPCAB) on the exciting introduction of a new level 5 qualification - Counselling Children and Young People (11-18).
In Episode 204 of the Counselling Tutor Podcast, Rory Lees-Oakes and Ken Kelly return with three new topics of discussion:
- In today’s ‘Counselling Foundations’ we look at barriers in communication.
- Then in ‘Focus on Self’, Rory and Ken discuss applying theories to self.
- And finally in ‘Practice Matters’, Rory and Chloe Swinton discuss what is ambiguous loss.
In Episode 203 of the Counselling Tutor Podcast, Rory Lees-Oakes and Ken Kelly discuss this week’s three segments:
- ‘Counselling Foundations’ – where we look at why ethics are important.
- ‘Focus on Self’ – where we look at knowing your attachment style.
- And finally in today’s ‘Practice Matters’, Rory speaks with Karen Lawrence about sex addiction.
Back with Episode 202 of the Counselling Tutor Podcast, your hosts Rory Lees-Oakes and Ken Kelly discuss today’s three topics:
- ‘Counselling Foundations’ – where today’s focus lies in pacing yourself within your sessions.
- ‘Focus on Self’ – where Rory and Ken discuss the importance of journaling.
- And finally ‘Practice Matters’, where today Rory is speaking to Chloe Foster about inclusivity with the LGBTQ community.
In Episode 201 of the Counselling Tutor Podcast, Rory Lees-Oakes and Ken Kelly return to discuss today’s three topics:
- ‘Counselling Foundations’ – where today Rory and Ken focus on developing a non-judgemental attitude in counselling.
- ‘Focus on Self’ – with how we set our boundaries as a therapist.
- And lastly in today’s ‘Practice Matters’, Rory discusses talking respectfully about sexuality and gender identity with Daniel Winstanley.
In Episode 200 of the Counselling Tutor Podcast, Ken Kelly and Rory Lees-Oakes celebrate nearing 2 million podcast downloads before outlining today’s three segments:
- ‘Counselling Foundations’ where in this episode Ken and Rory discuss becoming congruent.
- In today’s ‘Focus on Self,’ we look at feelings of incompetence.
- And finally in today’s ‘Practice Matters’, Rory speaks with Marion Elkin-Greener about working with addictions.
In Episode 199 of the Counselling Tutor Podcast, Rory Lees-Oakes and Ken Kelly return with your three favourite segments:
- ‘Counselling Foundations’ – where today’s focus is enhancing your empathy.
- ‘Focus on Self’ – where Rory and Ken introduce how to gain the necessary resilience to cope with a client's personal struggles.
- And once again ending with ‘Practice Matters’, where today Rory is joined by Emma Chapman to discuss maternal mental health.
Episode 198 of the Counselling Tutor Podcast begins with our new regular slot, ‘Counselling Foundations’, in which presenters Rory Lees-Oakes and Ken Kelly talk this week about the use of silence in the counselling room. Next, in ‘Focus on Self’, how your history informs your therapeutic practice is discussed. Finally, ‘Practice Matters’ offers an exclusive interview with psychotherapist Mamood Ahmad, who has recently produced a new lecture for our Counsellor CPD online library.
In Episode 197 of the Counselling Tutor Podcast – the first of the new season, as we enter the start of the 2021/22 academic year – presenters Rory Lees-Oakes and Ken Kelly introduce two new regular slots:
- ‘Counselling Foundations’ – this section will explore theory, skills and practice points that underpin counselling practice, and is intended to be useful to both students and qualified practitioners. The focus in this episode is on academic writing in counselling.
- ‘Focus on Self’ – this recognises the importance of self in counselling training and work, and today looks at who you are in your counselling practice.
Last but not least, in our ongoing ‘Practice Matters’ slot, Rory interviews Amy Launder on working with moral injury.
In this special edition of the Counselling Tutor Podcast, Rory Lees-Oakes interviews two members of the National Counselling Society’s Council – Freya Bottomley (Interim Chief Executive during Chief Executive Meg Moss’s maternity leave) and Jyles Robillard Day (Head of Engagement and Development). Rory asks questions posed by members of the Counselling Tutor Facebook group. If you aren’t already a member of our Facebook group, do come along and join over 38,000 students, qualified practitioners, tutors and supervisors interested in the world of counselling and psychotherapy.
During academic breaks, we sometimes broadcast special editions of the Counselling Tutor Podcast. In this special edition – broadcast in the summer break of 2021, as the COVID-19 continues but is no longer at its peak – Rory Lees-Oakes speaks to Kelly Budd, Head of Qualifications at the Counselling and Psychotherapy Central Awarding Body (CPCAB), the UK’s only awarding body run by counsellors for counsellors. Kelly announces exciting news about the CPCAB’s plans for how its courses will be delivered in future.
In Episode 196 of the Counselling Tutor Podcast – the last of this season, prior to the summer break – presenter Rory Lees-Oakes interviews student Ruth Watson in ‘Student Check-In’. ‘Focus on Supervision’ then sees Rory and Ken Kelly looking at self-care in supervision. Finally, Rory talks with Professor Mick Cooper about using goals in therapy.
Episode 195 of the Counselling Tutor Podcast opens with presenters Rory Lees-Oakes and Ken Kelly discussing therapeutic impasse in ‘Student Check-In’. Then, in ‘Focus on Supervision’, they explore Michael Carroll’s seven tasks of supervision. Last, Rory talks with counsellor Sally-Anne Armitage about working with sceptical clients.
In episode 194 of the Counselling Tutor Podcast, you can hear presenters Rory Lees-Oakes and Ken Kelly talking about Carl Gustav Jung’s concept of the shadow self in ‘Student Check-In’. Then, in ‘Focus on Supervision’, they discuss the parallel process in the supervisory relationship. The episode closes with experienced online therapist Tamara Howell offering us a peek into her practice.
Episode 193 of the Counselling Tutor Podcast opens with ‘Student Check-In’, in which presenters Rory Lees-Oakes and Ken Kelly discuss the importance of personal development for both trainee and qualified counsellors, and how this links to theory. Next – in our new slot ‘Focus on Supervision’ – Ken and Rory talk about the importance of boundaries in supervision. Finally, in ‘Practice Matters’, Rory interviews Clint Adams about how to support clients in tackling destructive thought patterns.
Episode 193 of the Counselling Tutor Podcast opens with ‘Student Check-In’, in which presenters Rory Lees-Oakes and Ken Kelly discuss the importance of personal development for both trainee and qualified counsellors, and how this links to theory. Next – in our new slot ‘Focus on Supervision’ – Ken and Rory talk about the importance of boundaries in supervision. Finally, in ‘Practice Matters’, Rory interviews Clint Adams about how to support clients in tackling destructive thought patterns.
In episode 192 of the Counselling Tutor Podcast, presenters Rory Lees-Oakes and Ken Kelly talk in ‘Student Check-In’ about key theory in counselling. Then – in the first instalment of ‘Focus on Supervision’ – Ken and Rory talk about the supervision triangle. To end, in ‘Practice Matters’, Rory talks to counsellor and trainer Ani de la Prida about working with creative arts therapy.
Episode 191 of the Counselling Tutor Podcast opens with ‘Student Check-In’ – in which presenters Rory Lees-Oakes and Ken Kelly talk about placement interviews. Next – in the final instalment of ‘Digital Counselling Revolution’ – Ken and Rory talk about training for online clinical supervision. Last, in ‘Practice Matters’, Rory talks to the counsellor and trainer Emma Chapman about working with clients on life transitions.
In Episode 190 of the Counselling Tutor Podcast, Rory Lees-Oakes and Ken Kelly talk about Erik Erikson’s eight stages of development in ‘Student Check-In’. ‘Digital Counselling Revolution’ then looks at the issue of establishing the identity of the client when working online. Finally, in ‘Practice Matters’, Rory talks to Meer Elkin about counselling in the USA.
Episode 189 of the Counselling Tutor Podcast opens with Rory Lees-Oakes and Ken Kelly talking through the history of cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT) in ‘Student Check-In’. ‘Digital Counselling Revolution’ then looks at the equipment you will need to practise online therapy effectively and ethically. Last, in ‘Practice Matters’, Rory talks to special guest Dr Roseann Capanna-Hodge about the role of parents in mental health between counselling sessions.
In episode 188 of the Counselling Tutor Podcast, Rory Lees-Oakes and Ken Kelly start with ‘Student Check-In’, discussing the dual process model of grief. In ‘Digital Counselling Revolution’, they then turn to attachment issues in telephone therapy – before Rory speaks with Martin Smith, in ‘Practice Matters’, about counselling for personality disorders.
Episode 187 of the Counselling Tutor Podcast opens with Rory Lees-Oakes and Ken Kelly talking about the strengths and weaknesses of cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT), and in particular the use of homework in this popular modality. ‘Digital Counselling Revolution’ then looks at asynchronous therapy – specifically the timing of communications when working in this way. Last – in ‘Practice Matters’ – Rory speaks with the counsellor and tutor Simon Heath about ecotherapy, in particular walk-and-talk therapy.
In Episode 186 of the Counselling Tutor Podcast, Rory Lees-Oakes interviews Torrie Hall, a final-year counselling student from Australia. ‘Digital Counselling Revolution’ then focuses on the importance of managing digital footprints when working online, before – in Practice Matters – the presenters discuss attachment styles, and how important understanding your attachment style is for counsellors.
We broadcast a special edition podcast on the National Counselling Society (NCS) in March 2019. This followed questions posed by members of the Counselling Tutor Facebook group. Rory then revisited the NCS in October 2020, with more questions gathered from the Facebook group, and spoke to NCS Chief Executive Meg Moss. In this third podcast about the NCS’s work, Rory and Meg discuss the debate around autonomy-centred and process-centred practice in counselling.
Episode 185 of the Counselling Tutor Podcast begins with Rory Lees-Oakes and Ken Kelly discussing influential women in the field of counselling and psychotherapy. ‘Digital Counselling Revolution’ then looks at how to choose online therapy platforms for therapists. Last, Rory speaks with counsellor Bernie Wright about working with clients who have eating disorders.
Episode 184 of the Counselling Tutor Podcast begins with Rory Lees-Oakes and Ken Kelly offering their tips on how to survive counselling training. Next, ‘Digital Counselling Revolution’ looks at GDPR for therapists, especially when working online. Finally, counsellor Paul Cullen provides a ‘peek into practice’ through a conversation with Rory about his work.
In episode 183 of the Counselling Tutor Podcast, Rory Lees-Oakes and Ken Kelly share their tips on getting into and staying within the client’s frame of reference. ‘Digital Counselling Revolution’ then looks at choosing a video background for your online counselling work. Last, Rory interviews integrative psychotherapist Emily Mitchell about her online therapy research, particularly on her findings about the relational aspect of online counselling.
Episode 182 of the Counselling Tutor Podcast opens with a discussion between Rory Lees-Oakes and Ken Kelly on the tasks of supervision in counselling. ‘Digital Counselling Revolution’ then focuses on making reasonable adjustments online. Finally, Rory interviews Meg Moss, Chief Executive of the National Counselling Society (NCS) about her work.
SCoPEd (Scope of Practice and Education) is a project to set out the training requirements and practice standards for counselling and psychotherapy. It is much discussed in the Counselling Tutor Facebook group.
In this special edition of the Counselling Tutor Podcast, Rory Lees-Oakes interviews Caroline Jesper and Jens Bakewell of the British Association for Counselling and Psychotherapy (BACP).
In Episode 181 of the Counselling Tutor Podcast, Rory Lees-Oakes and Ken Kelly talk about the different stages in the counselling relationship. ‘Digital Counselling Revolution’ then examines the process of making referrals in online (as opposed to face-to-face) counselling. Last, Rory interviews Maggi McAllister-MacGregor about a new lecture she has recently produced for Counsellor CPD on neuroscience and counselling.
Episode 180 of the Counselling Tutor Podcast opens with Rory Lees-Oakes and Ken Kelly discussing the skill of idiosyncratic empathy. Then, in ‘Digital Counselling Revolution’, Rory interviews Adrian Rhodes, Chair of the Association for Counselling and Therapy Online (ACTO). Finally, in ‘Practice Matters’, we have another guest – this time Kairen Griffiths, speaking about teenage brain development.
In episode 179 of the Counselling Tutor Podcast, Rory Lees-Oakes and Ken Kelly offer tips for students on succeeding in their counselling research projects. There’s then an exciting announcement in ‘Digital Counselling Revolution’ about a brand-new book from the team. Finally, in ‘Practice Matters’, the presenters launch a new feature – ‘Peek into Practice’ – which they illustrate through a conversation about Rory’s experience as a school counsellor.
Episode 178 of the Counselling Tutor Podcast opens with a discussion between Rory Lees-Oakes and Ken Kelly about the differences between integrative and eclectic counselling. Then, ‘Digital Counselling Revolution’ looks at geographical considerations when working therapeutically online. Last, in ‘Practice Matters’, the presenters explain the three main mental health models.
In episode 177 of the Counselling Tutor Podcast, Rory Lees-Oakes and Ken Kelly discuss the situation when clients don’t show up for therapy—or what we abbreviate as DNA (do not attend). Then, ‘Digital Counselling Revolution’ looks at how we manage and experience endings online. Finally, in ‘Practice Matters’, Rory talks with person-centred counsellor, trainer, author and doctoral student Lisa Cromar about autism-masking.
In episode 176 of the Counselling Tutor Podcast, Rory Lees-Oakes and Ken Kelly look at the skill of immediacy in the ‘Student Check-In’. ‘Digital Counselling Revolution’ then focuses on self-care in online working. Last, in ‘Practice Matters’, the presenters discuss working with hard-to-help or challenging clients in counselling.
In episode 175 of the Counselling Tutor Podcast – the first for 2021 – Rory Lees-Oakes and Ken Kelly open with the ‘Student Check-In’, discussing diversity. ‘Digital Counselling Revolution’ then looks at supervision for online therapy work. Finally, in ‘Practice Matters’, Rory interviews counsellor and trainer Emma Chapman on polyvagal theory.
In episode 174 of the Counselling Tutor Podcast, Rory Lees-Oakes and Ken Kelly look at self-psychology in the ‘Student Check-In’. Then, in ‘Digital Counselling Revolution’, they discuss the importance of being mindful of how you present yourself online. Last, ‘Practice Matters’ focuses on the polyvagal theory in counselling practice, which is the topic of a new lecture by counsellor and trainer Emma Chapman.
Rory Lees-Oakes and Ken Kelly open episode 173 of the Counselling Tutor Podcast with the ‘Student Check-In’, looking at configurations of self. Then, in the ‘Digital Counselling Revolution’, they give tips on how to get counselling contracts signed when working online or by telephone. Finally, ‘Practice Matters’ comprises an interview with Michael Pearson about talking about sex and sexuality in therapy.
In episode 172 of the Counselling Tutor Podcast, Rory Lees-Oakes and Ken Kelly start with the ‘Student Check-In’, in which they discuss the use of timelines in therapy. Then, in the ‘Digital Counselling Revolution’, they give some pointers to taking payments digitally. Finally, ‘Practice Matters’ focuses on working with trauma in counselling, through an interview with Tracy Jarvis, a psychotherapist who specialises in trauma, stress and neuroscience. Tracy is also Director of PESI UK.
In episode 171 of the Counselling Tutor Podcast, Rory Lees-Oakes talks to Kelly Budd of CPCAB about student placements during the COVID-19 pandemic. Then, in ‘The Digital Counselling Revolution’, Rory and Ken Kelly discuss the importance of research.
Last, ‘Practice Matters’ looks at assessment in counselling, the topic of a new lecture available in Counsellor CPD, our online CPD library that contains hundreds of hours of on-demand CPD lectures, training and resources to support your development.
In episode 170 of the Counselling Tutor Podcast, Ken Kelly and Rory Lees-Oakes answer the question ‘Is transference person-centred?’ Next in ‘The Digital Counselling Revolution’, they give telephone counselling tips for counsellors. Finally, in ‘Practice Matters’, Rory speaks to Dr Suzanne Zeedyk about adverse childhood experiences (ACEs).
In episode 169 of the Counselling Tutor Podcast, Ken Kelly and Rory Lees-Oakes share their tips on getting to grips with counselling skills. ‘The Digital Counselling Revolution’ then focuses on possible content for a client information sheet for counselling. Last, in ‘Practice Matters’, the presenters discuss how to work with suicidal clients, drawing on the work of Dr Andrew Reeves, former BACP Chair, who has recorded a lecture on this specialist topic for Counsellor CPD.
In episode 168 of the Counselling Tutor Podcast, Ken Kelly and Rory Lees-Oakes talk about the concept of the internal supervisor. ‘The Digital Counselling Revolution’ then looks at insurance for online counsellors. Finally, in ‘Practice Matters’, the presenters talk about how your personal beliefs may influence therapy work, and where you can learn more about this.
We broadcast a special edition podcast on the National Counselling Society (NCS) in March 2019. This followed questions posed by members of the Counselling Tutor Facebook group.
Rory now revisits the NCS with more questions gathered from the Facebook group, and speaks to NCS Chief Executive Meg Nunn.
In episode 167 of the Counselling Tutor Podcast, Ken Kelly and Rory Lees-Oakes discuss imposter syndrome, before ‘The Digital Counselling Revolution’ looks at therapist boundaries when working online. Finally, in ‘Practice Matters’, the presenters talk about ethical problem-solving.
In episode 166 of the Counselling Tutor Podcast, Ken Kelly and Rory Lees-Oakes kick off with the Student Check-in, talking about self-concept and how the Johari window can be used to promote personal development. ‘The Digital Counselling Revolution’ then focuses on the question ‘Is online therapy effective’ and the research evidence for its effectiveness. Then, in ‘Practice Matters’, the presenters provide tips on writing counselling notes.
Episode 165 of the Counselling Tutor Podcast focuses on self-care, with Ken Kelly and Rory Lees-Oakes starting off by discussing self-care in online personal development (PD) groups. ‘The Digital Counselling Revolution’ then looks into the question ‘Is online therapy safe’ and gives ways to ensure personal safety during sessions. Finally, in ‘Practice Matters’, the presenters discuss the ethical importance of good self-care.
In episode 164 of the Counselling Tutor Podcast, Ken Kelly and Rory Lees-Oakes discuss creative ways of practising skills online. ‘The Digital Counselling Revolution’ then focuses on specific areas in online therapy contracts. Last, in ‘Practice Matters’, Rory talks to Nicola Hughes about working with bereaved children.
In episode 163 of the Counselling Tutor Podcast, Ken Kelly and Rory Lees-Oakes look at questions to ask at counselling placement interviews. ‘The Digital Counselling Revolution’ then focuses on another theory to be aware of when working online: the black-hole effect. Last, in ‘Practice Matters’, the presenters discuss working with clients who self-harm.
In episode 162 of the Counselling Tutor Podcast, Ken Kelly and Rory Lees-Oakes look at mandatory personal counselling for students of counselling and psychotherapy. ‘The Digital Counselling Revolution’ then focuses on a theory to be aware of when working online: the disinhibition effect. Finally, in ‘Practice Matters’, the presenters discuss counselling clients on prescription medication.
In episode 161 of the Counselling Tutor Podcast, Ken Kelly and Rory Lees-Oakes provide tips on how to manage the anxiety that you may naturally be feeling at the prospect of starting the new academic year. ‘The Digital Counselling Revolution’ then looks at synchronous and asynchronous communication in counselling – what these are and the various pros and cons of each. Last, in ‘Practice Matters’, the presenters discuss counselling assessment, with reference to a lecture in Counsellor CPD.
Welcome to episode 160 of the Counselling Tutor Podcast, in which Ken Kelly and Rory Lees-Oakes discuss what blended learning is, and what it can offer you. Then, our new slot ‘The Digital Counselling Revolution’ looks at the benefits and challenges of counselling clients online. Finally, in ‘Practice Matters’, Rory talks to counsellor and trainer Nicola Hughes about the important topic of bereavement.
Welcome to episode 159, the first in our brand-new series of the Counselling Tutor Podcast. In this episode, Ken Kelly and Rory Lees-Oakes discuss the challenges of online counselling training where much of the input is provided remotely. Then, in an innovative new slot ‘The Digital Counselling Revolution’, the presenters look at where counselling is going in the era of social distancing and reduced opportunity for face-to-face contact. Last, ‘Practice Matters’ focuses on existential therapy, with input from guest lecturer Professor Mick Cooper.
During the academic breaks, the Counselling Tutor Podcast returns periodically with special editions – and in this last podcast of the current season, Rory Lees-Oakes talks to Kris Ambler (Workforce Lead) at the British Association of Counselling and Psychotherapy (BACP) about how the professional body is seeking to enhance employment for counsellors and psychotherapists. Finding paid work as a counsellor is a frequently occurring topic in our Facebook group.
During the academic breaks, the Counselling Tutor Podcast returns periodically with special editions – and this time, Ken Kelly and Rory Lees-Oakes discuss what you need to consider when starting a private practice in counselling. Rory interviews Jo Langston (Ethics Services Manager) and Caz Binstead (a member of the Private Practice Divisional Executive) at the British Association of Counselling and Psychotherapy (BACP) about the resources available to help you, and the ethical issues to consider.
In episode 156 of the Counselling Tutor Podcast – the last academic podcast for this academic year – Ken Kelly and Rory Lees-Oakes discuss the legal and ethical aspects of confidentiality. ‘Check-In with CPCAB’ then looks at a new course to be offered by CPCAB. Last, in ‘Practice Matters’, the presenters talk about acceptance and commitment therapy (ACT), which is the topic of a new Counsellor CPD lecture.
In episode 155 of the Counselling Tutor Podcast, Ken Kelly and Rory Lees-Oakes give some tips on the feasibility of entering counselling training if you have a difficult past. ‘Check-In with CPCAB’ then looks at the development of blended learning in the field of counselling and psychotherapy. Finally, in ‘Practice Matters’, the presenters discuss how to handle abusive phone calls.
In episode 154 of the Counselling Tutor Podcast, Ken Kelly and Rory Lees-Oakes give some tips on interviews for counselling placements. ‘Check-In with CPCAB’ then looks at the concept of deliberate practice in counselling: what it means and how to do it. Finally, in ‘Practice Matters’, the presenters discuss Stockholm Syndrome.
In episode 153 of the Counselling Tutor Podcast, Ken Kelly and Rory Lees-Oakes delve into the psychological theory of attribution bias. ‘Check-In with CPCAB’ then looks at how assessment will be carried out this year, given that in-person exams cannot take place due to the COVID-19 situation. Last, in ‘Practice Matters’, the presenters explore working with anger in the counselling room.
In episode 152 of the Counselling Tutor Podcast, Ken Kelly and Rory Lees-Oakes explore how different theories view mental health. ‘Check-In with CPCAB’ then looks at the possible benefits of adding a level 5 CBT diploma to your counselling qualifications. Finally, in ‘Practice Matters’, the presenters look at the use of Winnicott’s attachment theory in counselling.
In episode 151 of the Counselling Tutor Podcast, Ken Kelly and Rory Lees-Oakes discuss the challenge of working with conflicting ethical frameworks. ‘Check-In with CPCAB’ then looks at the possible benefits of getting a Level 5 diploma in counselling. Finally, in ‘Practice Matters’, Rory interviews Lisa Cromar about counselling autistic people.
In episode 150 of the Counselling Tutor Podcast, Ken Kelly and Rory Lees-Oakes talk about what to expect when you move up to the next level of counselling training. ‘Check-In with CPCAB’ then focuses on external assessment, and how you can best prepare for this. Finally, in ‘Practice Matters’, Rory interviews Professor Windy Dryden about single-session therapy.
In episode 149 of the Counselling Tutor Podcast, Ken Kelly and Rory Lees-Oakes provide tips on how to prepare for interviews for the next level of counselling training (or for placements). ‘Check-In with CPCAB’ then focuses on the support you may like to put in place as you finish the academic year, and perhaps your whole course. Last, in ‘Practice Matters’, Rory interviews psychologist John Mellor-Clark about using CORE assessment in counselling work.
In episode 148 of the Counselling Tutor Podcast, Ken Kelly and Rory Lees-Oakes talk about students’ concerns following the disruption to counselling studies in the COVID-19 pandemic. ‘Check-In with CPCAB’ then looks at how students are assessed against course criteria. Finally, in ‘Practice Matters’, Rory interviews counsellor Linda Mather about counselling for substance abuse.
In episode 147 of the Counselling Tutor Podcast, Ken Kelly and Rory Lees-Oakes talk about the power dynamics in the counselling relationship. ‘Check-In with CPCAB’ then explores how counselling qualifications are issued. Last, in ‘Practice Matters’, Ken and Rory discuss how to maintain professional motivation, especially during the COVID-19 lockdown period.
In episode 146 of the Counselling Tutor Podcast, Ken Kelly and Rory Lees-Oakes talk about Counselling Tutor’s response to the effect on counsellors of the COVID-19 pandemic, discussing our new online course to support you to switch to online and telephone counselling. ‘Check-In with CPCAB’ then explores complaints processes for students of counselling and psychotherapy. Finally, in ‘Practice Matters’, Rory interviews counsellor Samantha Davies about attention deficit hyperactivity disorder or ADHD counselling.
In the second COVID-19 Special of the Counselling Tutor Podcast, Ken Kelly and Rory Lees-Oakes discuss the challenges for students in switching from face-to-face to online learning and supervision, and how we can help manage clients’ anxiety in these very difficult times.
In this first COVID-19 Special of the Counselling Tutor Podcast, Ken Kelly and Rory Lees-Oakes respond to the fast-changing situation. The three topics, especially the different ways of counselling during the COVID-19 outbreak, have all been chosen to reflect topical areas for students of counselling and psychotherapy at this challenging time.
In episode 145 of the Counselling Tutor Podcast, Ken Kelly and Rory Lees-Oakes explore shame, and how to work with this widespread human emotion in the counselling room. ‘Check-In with CPCAB’ then looks at the role of external verifiers in counselling training. Last, in ‘Practice Matters’, the presenters discuss the General Data Protection Regulation and its implications for counselling professionals.
In episode 144 of the Counselling Tutor Podcast, Ken Kelly and Rory Lees-Oakes share their experience of when and how to make an ethical referral. ‘Check-In with CPCAB’ then explores the two-way learning in the counselling classroom. Finally, in ‘Practice Matters’, Rory interviews counsellor and tutor Emma Chapman about suicide prevention for counsellors.
In episode 143 of the Counselling Tutor Podcast, Ken Kelly and Rory Lees-Oakes explain cognitive dissonance. ‘Check-In with CPCAB’ then looks at the concept of the minimum assessment levels set by awarding bodies and how course providers may add to these. Last, in ‘Practice Matters’, Rory interviews Carole Henderson, Managing Director of Grief Recovery Europe, about the Grief Recovery Method.
In episode 142 of the Counselling Tutor Podcast, Ken Kelly and Rory Lees-Oakes look at how to create a good counselling environment – talking about the ideal elements and the bare minimum. ‘Check-In with CPCAB’ then describes CPCAB’s other activities that you might not already be aware of. Finally, in ‘Practice Matters’, Rory interviews a specialist in working with children.
In episode 141 of the Counselling Tutor Podcast, Ken Kelly and Rory Lees-Oakes look at the pros and cons of integrative counselling, and compares it with eclectic counselling. ‘Check-In with CPCAB’ then focuses on standardising assessment levels across awarding bodies, before ‘Practice Matters’ discusses endings in counselling.
In episode 140 of the Counselling Tutor Podcast, Ken Kelly and Rory Lees-Oakes discuss discrimination and how to guard against this in your counselling practice. ‘Check-In with CPCAB’ then looks at the tricky issue of dual relationships between tutors and students. Last, in ‘Practice Matters’, the presenters explore counselling for self-harm, including the forms that self-harm takes.
In episode 139 of the Counselling Tutor Podcast, Ken Kelly and Rory Lees-Oakes point out the many benefits of doing a counselling placement, beyond the obvious purpose of building your 100 hours’ experience. ‘Check-In with CPCAB’ then covers working with a client long-term, and how this differs from the experience of providing short-term therapy. Finally, in ‘Practice Matters’, the presenters discuss child bereavement and how to prepare for counselling a grieving child ethically.
In episode 138 of the Counselling Tutor Podcast, Ken Kelly and Rory Lees-Oakes explain the concepts of the id, ego and superego. ‘Check-In with CPCAB’ then looks at progression routes when training in counselling. Last, in ‘Practice Matters’, the presenters describe the emergence of the concept of adverse childhood experiences and how these may affect your work.
In episode 137 of the Counselling Tutor Podcast, Ken Kelly and Rory Lees-Oakes talk about counselling suicidal clients, or clients who express suicidal thoughts. ‘Check-In with CPCAB’ then looks at what to do if you need to take a year out of your course. Finally, in ‘Practice Matters’, the presenters discuss dealing with disagreements with colleagues.
In episode 136 of the Counselling Tutor Podcast, Ken Kelly and Rory Lees-Oakes discuss the situations in which you may be required to release client notes. Moving onto ‘Check-In with CPCAB’, Rory talks to Kelly Budd about support networks for students. For the final section of the podcast, the ‘Practice Matters’ slot returns by popular demand; this week, it focuses on best practice in taking client notes in counselling.
In episode 135 of the Counselling Tutor Podcast, Ken Kelly and Rory Lees-Oakes offer tips on how to plan for counselling breaks. In ‘Check-In with CPCAB’, Rory talks to Kelly Budd about feelings as you approach your first client hour, and how to prepare for this. Finally, the presenters discuss the importance of CPD, and an exciting new way to access this online.
In episode 134 of the Counselling Tutor Podcast, Ken Kelly and Rory Lees-Oakes talk about whether therapists as individuals may be the limiting factor in the person-centred approach. ‘Check-In with CPCAB’ then offers some tips for positively and constructively giving and receiving feedback in counselling training. Last, Ken and Rory discuss the place of theory in the counselling room in different modalities – before making an exciting announcement that in January 2020, Counselling Tutor will be launching new products aimed at providing continuing professional development opportunities for qualified counsellors.
In episode 133 of the Counselling Tutor Podcast, Ken Kelly and Rory Lees-Oakes discuss if you can become a counsellor with a criminal record. In ‘Check-In with CPCAB’, there then follows an announcement about a new book that is about to be published, especially aimed at Level 4 students of counselling. Last, the presenters talk about professional wills: what these might cover and why they matter.
In episode 132 of the Counselling Tutor Podcast, Ken Kelly and Rory Lees-Oakes talk about the experience of getting an assignment referred. ‘Check-In with CPCAB’ then focuses on differences between role play (working with made-up scenarios) and real play (working with real situations) in peer work. Finally, the presenters discuss working within your competence in counselling.
In episode 131 of the Counselling Tutor Podcast, Ken Kelly and Rory Lees-Oakes discuss personal development (PD) groups in counselling training. ‘Check-In with CPCAB’ then looks at the importance and value of personal therapy during counselling training. Finally, the presenters talk about ethical frameworks in practice, and their use in resolving any ethical dilemmas.
In episode 130 of the Counselling Tutor Podcast, Ken Kelly and Rory Lees-Oakes discuss supervision contracts. ‘Check-In with CPCAB’ then looks at what to consider when looking for a placement. Finally, the presenters explore how to set boundaries as a counsellor, to prevent/manage situations when clients push the boundaries of the counselling relationship.
In episode 129 of the Counselling Tutor Podcast, Ken Kelly and Rory Lees-Oakes talk about counselling diverse clients. ‘Check-In with CPCAB’ then discusses how we can learn from observing others who have more experience than we do. Last, the presenters explain the importance of data protection, especially in relation to recording sessions.
In episode 128 of the Counselling Tutor Podcast, Ken Kelly and Rory Lees-Oakes talk about applying for counselling placements. ‘Check-In with CPCAB’ then discusses how to log client hours, in particular looking at clients who DNA (do not attend) and at session lengths. Finally, the presenters explain the importance of having the right insurance as a counsellor.
In episode 127 of the Counselling Tutor Podcast, Ken Kelly and Rory Lees-Oakes look at recording therapy sessions. ‘Check-In with CPCAB’ then looks at reasonable adjustments that can be made by centres to help establish a level playing field for all students. Finally, the presenters explore the feelings that might arise in the counsellor and the client when confidentiality has to be broken.
In episode 126 of the Counselling Tutor Podcast, Ken Kelly and Rory Lees-Oakes discuss the use of feelings words. ‘Check-In with CPCAB’ then looks at the value of authenticity, both psychologically and physically. Last, the presenters debate whether or not professional-body counselling accreditation is essential for counsellors.
In episode 125 of the Counselling Tutor Podcast, Ken Kelly and Rory Lees-Oakes discuss the differences between counselling and using counselling skills. ‘Check-In with CPCAB’ then looks at whether a Level 4 counselling qualification is enough for setting up in private practice. Finally, the presenters explore how to set up a private counselling practice. They discuss what you will need to consider if you do decide at some stage to become a private-practice counsellor.
In episode 124 of the Counselling Tutor Podcast, Ken Kelly and Rory Lees-Oakes talk to a special guest about her journey through counselling training. ‘Check-In with CPCAB’ then looks at assessment tools in counselling. Last, the presenters explore the value of psycho-education in counselling.
In episode 123 of the Counselling Tutor Podcast, Ken Kelly and Rory Lees-Oakes discuss the need for ethical frameworks in counselling. Our new regular segment, ‘Check-In with CPCAB’, then looks at dual relationships in counselling. Finally, the presenters discuss what to do when a client disagrees with you.
In episode 122 of the Counselling Tutor Podcast, Ken Kelly and Rory Lees-Oakes discuss the differences between counselling and other forms of helping. Our new regular segment, ‘Check-In with CPCAB’, then looks at why we check in. Finally, the presenters explore the experience of counselling in ‘real life’ as opposed to college-based counselling session role play or practice sessions.
In episode 121 of the Counselling Tutor Podcast – the second in this new season – Ken Kelly and Rory Lees-Oakes offer tips on stepping up to the next level in your counselling training. Our new regular segment, ‘Check-In with CPCAB’, then looks at counselling assessment criteria and learning outcomes. Last, the presenters explore the pressure we might put ourselves under to get our counselling skills right.
In episode 120 of the Counselling Tutor Podcast – the first in this new season – Ken Kelly and Rory Lees-Oakes talk about how to avoid overwhelm when returning to studying after the summer break. Next, they introduce a brand-new regular segment, ‘Check-In with CPCAB’ (more below), and discuss the purpose of counselling awarding bodies. Finally, the presenters look at meeting new groups in your studies, and reforming old ones after the summer break.
In episode 119 of the Counselling Tutor Podcast – the last of this season – Ken Kelly and Rory Lees-Oakes talk about how to work with clients who have a narcissistic parent. In ‘Practice Matters’, Rory explores what to do when you find a client frightening. Finally, the presenters look at humanistic love in the counselling room.
In episode 118 of the Counselling Tutor Podcast, Ken Kelly and Rory Lees-Oakes describe the importance of the counsellor ensuring that they are being the adult in the therapy room. In ‘Practice Matters’, Rory talks about different types of family structures, and considerations in working with clients in this respect. Last but not least, the presenters look at helicopter skills in the therapy room.
In episode 117 of the Counselling Tutor Podcast, Ken Kelly and Rory Lees-Oakes ask whether or not Carl Rogers’ core conditions in counselling are necessary and sufficient for psychological change. In ‘Practice Matters’, Rory then talks about how to work with clients on prescribed medication. Finally, the presenters discuss the topic of counsellors who have tattoos.
In episode 116 of the Counselling Tutor Podcast, Ken Kelly and Rory Lees-Oakes examine the different counselling supervision models. In ‘Practice Matters’, Rory then talks about the importance of networking for counsellors. The presenters end this episode with a description of and discussion on pluralistic therapy.
In episode 115 of the Counselling Tutor Podcast, Ken Kelly and Rory Lees-Oakes look at the importance of valuing yourself as a professional. Then – in ‘Practice Matters’ – Rory explores how to grow as a counsellor. Last, the presenters discuss how you can use your academic breaks productively.
In episode 114 of the Counselling Tutor Podcast, Ken Kelly and Rory Lees-Oakes talk about counselling reluctant clients. In ‘Practice Matters’, Rory then discusses how to approach clients who discuss intimate relationships in therapy. Finally, the presenters look at using academic journals.
In episode 113 of the Counselling Tutor Podcast, Ken Kelly and Rory Lees-Oakes start by talking about the neuroscience underlying empathy in humans and animals. In ‘Practice Matters’, Rory explores the therapeutic use of self in counselling. Last but most certainly not least, Ken announces the publication of Rory’s new book, Counselling Theory in Practice: A Student Guide (Nielsens UK, 2019), and asks Rory to tell us more about his motivations for writing this and what readers can expect to find there.
In episode 112 of the Counselling Tutor Podcast, Ken Kelly and Rory Lees-Oakes explore the etiquette of meeting a new client. In ‘Practice Matters’, Rory talks about possible procedures when a client dies. Finally, the presenters discuss finding work as a counsellor.
In episode 111 of the Counselling Tutor Podcast, Ken Kelly and Rory Lees-Oakes discuss the importance of avoiding plagiarism in counselling studies. In ‘Practice Matters’, Rory looks at self-disclosure in counselling by practitioners. Last, the presenters talk about how to reject a supervisor, if you interview several to choose the right one for you.
In episode 110 of the Counselling Tutor Podcast, Ken Kelly and Rory Lees-Oakes discuss dual relationships in counselling. In ‘Practice Matters’, Rory looks at working with clients who have visual impairment. Finally, the presenters talk about the importance of understanding laws relevant to counselling, with a particular focus on the Equality Act 2010.
In episode 109 of the Counselling Tutor Podcast, Ken Kelly and Rory Lees-Oakes talk about the pros and cons of working in two (or more) agencies as a student or qualified counsellor. Next – in ‘Practice Matters’ – Rory looks at counselling angry clients. The episode ends with the presenters offering tips on how we can make peace with our failures, and learn to see failure as a positive tool for learning.
In episode 108 of the Counselling Tutor Podcast, Ken Kelly and Rory Lees-Oakes describe why it is important to link theory to your personal development as a counsellor, and how you can do so. In ‘Practice Matters’, Rory explains how to write letters to other professionals. Finally, the presenters discuss the challenges of working with a client’s emotional – as opposed to chronological – age.
In episode 107 of the Counselling Tutor Podcast, Ken Kelly and Rory Lees-Oakes talk about intrusive thoughts and how best to deal with these. In ‘Practice Matters’, Rory then looks at how to deal with emergency phone calls from clients. Last, the presenters discuss group supervision for counsellors and how this is different from one-to-one supervision.
In episode 106 of the Counselling Tutor Podcast, Ken Kelly and Rory Lees-Oakes discuss the use of assessment tools in counselling. In ‘Practice Matters’, Rory then looks at the various forms of unethical behaviour in counselling. Finally, the presenters talk about the different levels of counselling training, and how to choose which level is right for you.
In episode 105 of the Counselling Tutor Podcast, Ken Kelly and Rory Lees-Oakes talk about important elements of the therapeutic relationship. In ‘Practice Matters’, Rory then covers possible distractions in the therapy room, and how to deal with these. The podcast closes with some pointers on the type of questions you might get asked – and might want to ask yourself – at a counselling placement interview.
In response to a number of questions posed by the Counselling Tutor Facebook group, the National Counselling Society (NCS) have had the great fortune to be asked to work with the Counselling Tutor team to create a podcast to respond to those questions.
In episode 104 of the Counselling Tutor Podcast, Ken Kelly and Rory Lees-Oakes discuss residentials that form part of counselling courses. In ‘Practice Matters’, Rory then talks about the differences between professional (or ethical) bodies and awarding bodies. The podcast ends on a discussion about whether or not you should break confidentiality if a client with HIV or AIDS discloses to you that they are having unprotected sex.
In episode 103 of the Counselling Tutor Podcast, Ken Kelly and Rory Lees-Oakes talk about the future of counselling qualifications. Next – in ‘Practice Matters’ – Rory describes attachment styles. Last, the presenters discuss why we focus on feelings (as opposed to narrative/story) in counselling.
In episode 102 of the Counselling Tutor Podcast, Ken Kelly and Rory Lees-Oakes talk about whether and how to explain your modality to clients. In ‘Practice Matters’, Rory looks at how to end a counselling session. Last, the presenters discuss ways of responding when clients ask for advice.
In episode 101 of the Counselling Tutor Podcast, Ken Kelly and Rory Lees-Oakes discuss the challenges of balancing your studies with all the other demands of life. In ‘Practice Matters’, Rory looks at what we can do when counselling seems not to work. Finally, the presenters discuss the challenges of your own personal development as a student counsellor.
Ken Kelly and Rory Lees-Oakes are very proud and excited to present the 100th episode of the Counselling Tutor Podcast! There have been over 600,000 downloads of the podcast since it began – that’s about the population of Glasgow – with a total running time of over 20 years (day and night)! To mark this special episode, Ken and Rory focus on the theme of celebration, looking first at owning your success. In ‘Practice Matters’, Rory then explores his experience of celebrating with clients. Finally, the presenters talk about reaching 100 client hours, and how to mark this huge achievement.
In episode 99 of the Counselling Tutor Podcast, Ken Kelly and Rory Lees-Oakes discuss the thorny issue of whether it’s possible to become friends with a former client. In ‘Practice Matters’, Rory explores his experience of appropriate attire as a counsellor, and – without telling listeners how to dress – asks listeners to consider how what you wear might affect the therapeutic relationship. Last, the presenters talk about possible progression routes after level 3.
During the UK academic breaks, Rory Lees-Oakes and Ken Kelly produce occasional special editions of the Counselling Tutor Podcast, in which they provide a ‘deep dive’ into a specific topic important to counselling and psychotherapy. In this episode, Rory talks with Angela Maughan about her experiences with autism as both a counselling client and student counsellor.
During the UK academic breaks, Rory Lees-Oakes and Ken Kelly produce occasional special editions of the Counselling Tutor Podcast, in which they provide a ‘deep dive’ into a specific topic important to counselling and psychotherapy. In this episode, Rory talks with Yvonne Lomas about her experiences with dyslexia as both a student and a teacher. They also give tips for studying with dyslexia.
In episode 98 of the Counselling Tutor Podcast, Ken Kelly and Rory Lees-Oakes discuss whether it’s possible for a counsellor to be too nice. In ‘Practice Matters’, Rory then talks about the appropriate use of questions in counselling. Finally, the presenters explore attachment styles, and how these can affect the therapeutic relationship.
In episode 97 of the Counselling Tutor Podcast, Ken Kelly and Rory Lees-Oakes talk about the natural anxiety that students often experience when having their counselling skills observed and/or assessed. In ‘Practice Matters’, Rory explores the thinking behind the requirement of many counselling courses that participants access their own personal therapy. Finally, the presenters explore culture, and how cultural differences can affect the therapeutic relationship.
In episode 96 of the Counselling Tutor Podcast, Ken Kelly and Rory Lees-Oakes clarify the difference between counselling and psychotherapy. In ‘Practice Matters’, Rory looks at how to develop your own internal supervisor. Last, the presenters discuss the skill of reflection in counselling.
In episode 95 of the Counselling Tutor Podcast, Ken Kelly and Rory Lees-Oakes clarify the study type and level required to become qualified as a counsellor. In ‘Practice Matters’, Rory looks at how to work with clients who have received a formal mental health diagnosis. Last, the presenters discuss working with sex offenders.
In episode 94 of the Counselling Tutor Podcast, Ken Kelly and Rory Lees-Oakes debate whether we can ever be truly non-biased. In ‘Practice Matters’, Rory covers the new General Data Protection Regulation for Europe. Finally, the presenters talk about what you could do if you’re feeling judged by your personal counsellor.
In episode 93 of the Counselling Tutor Podcast, Ken Kelly and Rory Lees-Oakes talk about what it means to be dyslexic as a counselling student. In ‘Practice Matters’, Rory talks about immediacy as a skill. Last, the presenters discuss personal development (PD) and its connection to theory.
In episode 92 of the Counselling Tutor Podcast, Ken Kelly and Rory Lees-Oakes talk about whether and – if so – when it is advisable to add to your original modality. In ‘Practice Matters’, Rory discusses the issue of free speech in the therapy room. Finally, the presenters look again at working with diverse client groups.
In episode 91 of the Counselling Tutor Podcast, Ken Kelly and Rory Lees-Oakes offer tips on what to do if you feel you clash with another student in your group. In ‘Practice Matters’, Rory looks at the more sinister aspect of mobile phones in the therapy room. Last, the presenters discuss when, how and with whom you might choose to share your accomplishments and qualifications.
In episode 90 of the Counselling Tutor Podcast, Ken Kelly and Rory Lees-Oakes describe the importance of joining an ethical body as a student member. In ‘Practice Matters’, Rory provides an overview on how to work with issues of a sexually intimate nature in the therapy room, Last, the presenters discuss the difference between reflection and reflexivity.
In episode 89 of the Counselling Tutor Podcast, Ken Kelly and Rory Lees-Oakes talk about how to respond when a client asks you a direct question. In ‘Practice Matters’, Rory describes the importance of research for counselling. Finally, the presenters discuss the importance of understanding agency policies and procedures.
In episode 88 of the Counselling Tutor Podcast, Ken Kelly and Rory Lees-Oakes offer tips on writing a reflective journal (a common requirement of counselling training courses). In ‘Practice Matters’, Rory talks about what you need to know when working with clients who are going through a court case. The episode closes with a discussion on disclosing personal problems to the group as a counselling student.
In episode 87 of the Counselling Tutor Podcast, Ken Kelly and Rory Lees-Oakes look at the complex issue of self-harm. In ‘Practice Matters’, Rory describes how to ‘shrink’ people. Last, the presenters provide guidance on looking for a counselling placement.
In episode 86 of the Counselling Tutor Podcast, Ken Kelly and Rory Lees-Oakes look at the difficult issue of touch in counselling. In ‘Practice Matters’, Rory describes strategies from his experience of working with suicidal clients. The presenters end the episode by talking about the anxiety that can naturally hit us when working in a group setting – and how we can help assuage this.
In episode 85 of the Counselling Tutor Podcast, Ken Kelly and Rory Lees-Oakes look at the ‘here and now’ in counselling. In ‘Practice Matters’, Rory talks about the risk of client dependency and how to spot this. Finally, the presenters discuss common motivations for studying counselling.
In episode 84 of the Counselling Tutor Podcast – the first of season 4 – Ken Kelly and Rory Lees-Oakes offer tips on setting goals for the academic year ahead, and describe the support they can offer with your studies. ‘Practice Matters’ goes ‘back to basics, covering the fundamentals of counselling. Last, the presenters discuss reading lists, and how best to tackle the academic reading you need to do for your course.
In the final episode of season 3 of the Counselling Tutor Podcast, Rory Lees-Oakes interviews Professor Tim Bond, who serves as consultant to the BACP on its Ethical Framework for the Counselling Professions. Tim is also the author of Standards and Ethics for Counselling in Action (4th edition) (Sage, 2015).
In episode 82 of the Counselling Tutor Podcast, Ken Kelly and Rory Lees-Oakes offer tips on how to study effectively. ‘Practice Matters’ addresses the difficult issue of taking risks in therapy. Last, the presenters discuss faith and religion, and whether these stem from an external or internal locus of evaluation.
In episode 81 of the Counselling Tutor Podcast, Ken Kelly and Rory Lees-Oakes offer guidance for disappointed students who haven’t got a place on the course they wanted. ‘Practice Matters’ goes on to describe the use of timelines in therapy. Finally, the presenters discuss possible challenges to learning.
In episode 80 of the Counselling Tutor Podcast, Ken Kelly and Rory Lees-Oakes talk about counselling clients who are affected by domestic abuse. ‘Practice Matters’ discusses trauma-informed practice. Last, the presenters explain cognitive dissonance.
In episode 79 of the Counselling Tutor Podcast, Ken Kelly and Rory Lees-Oakes offer tips on the common issue of having feelings of incompetence as a student counsellor. ‘Practice Matters’ discussed working with a third person in the room. Finally, the presenters talk about completing your placement hours.
In episode 78 of the Counselling Tutor Podcast, Ken Kelly and Rory Lees-Oakes offer tips on using quotations in assignments. ‘Practice Matters’ looks at reasons why clients may ‘disappear’. Last, the presenters discuss what it means to have an assignment referred.
In episode 77 of the Counselling Tutor Podcast, Ken Kelly and Rory Lees-Oakes discuss whether age is a barrier to starting counselling training. ‘Practice Matters’ then looks at working within your competence as a counsellor. Finally, the presenters talk about getting signed off as fit to practise.
In episode 76 of the Counselling Tutor Podcast, Ken Kelly and Rory Lees-Oakes discuss how to spot and work with clients’ defences. ‘Practice Matters’ then investigates the limits to confidentiality in counselling. Finally, the presenters discuss the key principles of the person-centred approach.
In episode 75 of the Counselling Tutor Podcast, Ken Kelly and Rory Lees-Oakes talk about psychodynamic theory. ‘Practice Matters’ then delves into transference, before the presenters discuss Abraham Maslow’s hierarchy of needs.
In episode 74 of the Counselling Tutor Podcast, Ken Kelly and Rory Lees-Oakes talk about self-concept, as written about by Carl Rogers. ‘Practice Matters’ examines attending. Last, the presenters discuss unconditional positive regard (UPR).
In episode 73 of the Counselling Tutor Podcast, Ken Kelly and Rory Lees-Oakes discuss the skill of active listening. ‘Practice Matters’ follows, in which Rory explains the Caldicott principles and how these can support ethical multidisciplinary working. Finally, the presenters discuss the use of simile and metaphor in counselling.
In episode 72 of the Counselling Tutor Podcast, Ken Kelly and Rory Lees-Oakes discuss empathy in counselling. Continuing to ‘Practice Matters’, Rory explains the main stages of counselling. Last, the presenters discuss immediacy.
In episode 71 of the Counselling Tutor Podcast, Ken Kelly and Rory Lees-Oakes talk about the dual-process model of bereavement. ‘Practice Matters’ focuses on hard-to-help clients. Finally, the presenters discuss working with clients with dementia, including using validation therapy.
In episode 70 of the Counselling Tutor Podcast, Ken Kelly and Rory Lees-Oakes offer tips on recording and transcribing counselling sessions. ‘Practice Matters’ discusses the important contents of a counselling contract. Last, the presenters discuss the philosophy that underlies cognitive-behavioural therapy (CBT).
In episode 69 of the Counselling Tutor Podcast, Ken Kelly and Rory Lees-Oakes talk about whether you should tell clients that you are a student counsellor. ‘Practice Matters’ then looks at how to make the most of your counselling placement. Finally, the presenters discuss the dilemma of counsellors with clinical depression.
In episode 68 of the Counselling Tutor Podcast, Ken Kelly and Rory Lees-Oakes talk about the strengths and hazards of expressive therapy, before ‘Practice Matters’ examines reviews in counselling. Then, the presenters discuss goal-setting with clients.
In episode 67 of the Counselling Tutor Podcast, Ken Kelly and Rory Lees-Oakes talk about difference and diversity in counselling. ‘Practice Matters’ focuses on how you, as counsellor, can recognise when you are experiencing transference relating to a client. Finally, the presenters discuss writing a reflective journal when this needs to be submitted to your tutor.
In episode 66 of the Counselling Tutor Podcast, Ken Kelly and Rory Lees-Oakes ask whether all counselling modalities are based on the person-centred approach. ‘Practice Matters’ then looks at boundaries in counselling. Last, the presenters discuss possible reasons for clients changing the topic in the counselling room.
In episode 65 of the Counselling Tutor Podcast, Ken Kelly and Rory Lees-Oakes explain how to decode the academic language of criteria. Following on – in ‘Practice Matters’ – Rory advises on making referrals. Finally, the presenters discuss how to use timelines in counselling.
In episode 64 of the Counselling Tutor Podcast, Ken Kelly and Rory Lees-Oakes discuss what to do when a client uses language that you might be uncomfortable with or not understand. Next, in a brand-new slot – ‘Practice Matters’ – Rory offers guidance on assessing clients. Last but not least, the presenters discuss person-centred interventions.
In episode 63 of the Counselling Tutor Podcast, Ken Kelly and Rory Lees-Oakes offer guidance on the meaning of the term ‘patterns of relating’. ‘Theory with Rory’ looks at the new area of cyber trauma. Finally, the presenters discuss the life-changing nature of counselling training, which often brings about large shifts in students’ moral compasses.
In episode 62 of the Counselling Tutor Podcast, Ken Kelly and Rory Lees-Oakes offer tips on how to make the first contact with a new client. ‘Theory with Rory’ summarises Martin Buber’s concept of ‘I–Thou’ versus ‘I-It’. Last, the presenters discuss the difficulties of seeing our own areas of prejudice.
In episode 61 of the Counselling Tutor Podcast, Ken Kelly and Rory Lees-Oakes explain the difference between ethical dilemmas and ethical conflicts, and how you can deal with these. ‘Theory with Rory’ looks at rackets and stamps, part of transactional analysis (TA) theory. Finally, the presenters illustrate the id, ego and superego (part of psychodynamic theory).
In episode 60 of the Counselling Tutor Podcast, Ken Kelly and Rory Lees-Oakes discuss how to look after yourself as a counsellor, especially when you are experiencing difficult events in your own life. ‘Theory with Rory’ presents the work of Jean Piaget. Last, the presenters explain how to compare and contrast humanistic models of counselling.
In episode 59 of the Counselling Tutor Podcast, Ken and Rory discuss how to offer unconditional positive regard (UPR) when your client has very different personal beliefs from your own. ‘Theory with Rory’ looks at the work of Eugene Gendlin, who developed the approach of focusing. Finally, the presenters offer encouragement on meeting the criteria of awarding bodies for counselling qualifications.
In episode 58 of the Counselling Tutor Podcast, Ken and Rory explain the law on counselling adopted people on adoption issues. ‘Theory with Rory’ looks at the cutting-edge field of brain plasticity. To finish this episode, the presenters discuss whether and how the gender of the therapist affects counselling.
In episode 57 of the Counselling Tutor Podcast, Ken and Rory talk about the difference between ‘explicit’ and ‘implicit’. ‘Theory with Rory’ discusses existentialism. Last, the presenters explain the science behind person-centred counselling.
In episode 56 of the Counselling Tutor Podcast, Ken and Rory talk about how to spot subtle themes in counselling. ‘Theory with Rory’ discusses experiments in gestalt therapy. Finally, the presenters talk about useful skills in existential therapy.
In episode 55 of the Counselling Tutor Podcast, Ken and Rory discuss gender equality in counselling. ‘Theory with Rory’ examines Robin Shohet and Peter Hawkins’ seven-eyed model of supervision. The podcast ends with a debate on race and culture in counselling.
In episode 54 of the Counselling Tutor Podcast, Ken and Rory discuss how to deal with clients who check their mobile phones during therapy sessions. ‘Theory with Rory’ explains Margaret Mahler’s separation individuation theory. Finally, the presenters discuss clients who come to therapy reluctantly – for example when they are sent by someone else, or when an initial enquiry about therapy services comes from a friend or relative of the potential client.
In episode 53 of the Counselling Tutor Podcast, Ken and Rory provide tips on journal-writing. ‘Theory with Rory’ looks at self-object and self-object transference (from the self-psychology movement). Finally, the presenters discuss the phenomenon of collective grief.
In episode 52 of the Counselling Tutor Podcast, Ken and Rory discuss how to look after yourself in skills practice. ‘Theory with Rory’ looks at the concepts of topdog and underdog in gestalt therapy. Last, the presenters debate whether (either younger or older) age is a barrier for counsellors.
In episode 51 of the Counselling Tutor Podcast, Ken and Rory provide tips on how best to organise your class-notes. ‘Theory with Rory’ discusses false memory syndrome, which Rory illustrates with a live experiment on Ken! Finally, the presenters list the many ethical bodies relating to counselling and psychotherapy in the UK, examining the similarities and differences.
In episode 50 of the Counselling Tutor Podcast, Ken Kelly describes the benefits of expanding your vocabulary. ‘Theory with Rory’ looks at redecision therapy, a school of transactional analysis. Last but not least, the presenters discuss the role and experience of conflict in counselling training and practice.
In episode 49 of the Counselling Tutor Podcast – the first in Season 3, as the UK academic year starts again – Rory Lees-Oakes and Ken Kelly discuss how important it is to take a break. ‘Theory with Rory’ describes the Jonah complex, followed by some tips from the presenters on planning for the study year ahead.
In this special edition of the Counselling Tutor Podcast – broadcast outside the usual UK academic term-time, and covering one topic in greater depth – Rory Lees-Oakes and Ken Kelly discuss progression routes for those finishing counselling training courses. At this time of year – when UK colleges and universities finish for the summer break – it may be a time for you to relax and reflect on next steps, or you may still be working hard on final assignments.
In episode 47 of the Counselling Tutor Podcast—the finale of Season 2—Rory Lees-Oakes and Ken Kelly discuss how person-centred counselling first came to Europe. ‘Theory with Rory’ looks at endings in counselling. Finally, the presenters review the achievements of Counselling Tutor over the last 12 months.
In episode 46 of the Counselling Tutor Podcast, Rory Lees-Oakes and Ken Kelly talk about how to cope with stress as course deadlines loom. ‘Theory with Rory’ examines trauma bonds, then the presenters discuss personal therapy for trainee counsellors.
In episode 45 of the Counselling Tutor Podcast, Rory Lees-Oakes and Ken Kelly talk about how to avoid asking, ‘How does that make you feel?’ ‘Theory with Rory’ looks at three key phases in the development of person-centred counselling. Last, the presenters offer tips on finding a suitable counselling supervisor.
In this special edition of the Counselling Tutor Podcast – broadcast outside the usual UK academic term-time, and covering one topic in greater depth – Rory Lees-Oakes and Ken Kelly discuss working with clients who have experienced sexual abuse and trauma.
In episode 44 of the Counselling Tutor Podcast, Rory Lees-Oakes and Ken Kelly offer tips on how to get into the client’s frame of reference. ‘Theory with Rory’ looks at existential counselling, as developed by Rollo May and Viktor Frankl. Finally, the presenters discuss the seven stages of process.
In episode 43 of the Counselling Tutor Podcast, Rory Lees-Oakes and Ken Kelly talk about how to choose which awarding body to go with for your qualification. ‘Theory with Rory’ explains about the new therapy of eye movement desensitisation and reprocessing (EMDR). Last, the presenters discuss the skill of challenge in counselling and psychotherapy.
In episode 42 of the Counselling Tutor Podcast, Rory Lees-Oakes and Ken Kelly discuss how to deal with clients who display anger in the therapy room. ‘Theory with Rory’ examines secondary loss. Finally, the presenters talk about what to do if a client asks you for advice.
In episode 41 of the Counselling Tutor Podcast, Rory Lees-Oakes and Ken Kelly describe how to write a case study. ‘Theory with Rory’ looks at how best to apply the 19 propositions when writing case studies and assignments. Last, the presenters talk about diversity in the counselling room.
In episode 40 of the Counselling Tutor Podcast, Rory Lees-Oakes and Ken Kelly discuss personal boundaries for counsellors. ‘Theory with Rory’ explains object relations theory, as developed by Melanie Klein. Finally, the presenters talk about diversity in the counselling room.
In episode 39 of the Counselling Tutor Podcast, Rory Lees-Oakes and Ken Kelly talk about meeting new clients for the first time. ‘Theory with Rory’ examines the difference between integrative and eclectic therapy. To conclude, the presenters talk about ways of measuring improvement in clients.
In episode 38 of the Counselling Tutor Podcast, Rory Lees-Oakes and Ken Kelly discuss the laws relating to counselling. ‘Theory with Rory’ examines the seven stages of process. Last, the presenters talk about endings in counselling.
In episode 37 of the Counselling Tutor Podcast, Rory Lees-Oakes and Ken Kelly talk about transference in the counselling room. ‘Theory with Rory’ examines unconditional positive regard (UPR). Finally, the presenters talk about doing your research project.
In episode 36 of the Counselling Tutor Podcast, Rory Lees-Oakes and Ken Kelly discuss the viability of using counselling qualifications in other countries and in other areas of work. ‘Theory with Rory’ looks at congruence, and then the presenters talk about funding for counselling training.
In episode 35 of the Counselling Tutor Podcast, Rory Lees-Oakes and Ken Kelly discuss how to deal with clients who show prejudice towards you. ‘Theory with Rory’ explains the ‘hidden condition’ of psychological contact. Last, the presenters talk about what to do when a client cries in the therapy room.
In episode 34 of the Counselling Tutor Podcast, Rory Lees-Oakes and Ken Kelly talk about how to store digital backups of notes and documents securely. ‘Theory with Rory’ looks into Margaret Warner's work on fragile process. Finally, the presenters discuss practical issues and tips regarding client confidentiality.
In episode 33 of the Counselling Tutor Podcast, Rory Lees-Oakes and Ken Kelly talk about the growth of counselling in schools. ‘Theory with Rory’ decodes ‘postmodernism’ and discusses how this affects the world of counselling and psychotherapy. Finally, the presenters discuss the importance of having professional indemnity insurance.
In episode 32 of the Counselling Tutor Podcast, Rory Lees-Oakes and Ken Kelly talk about recent changes in the world of counselling. ‘Theory with Rory’ then examines thematic apperception tests. Last, the presenters discuss the use of transitional objects.
In episode 31 of the Counselling Tutor Podcast, Rory Lees-Oakes and Ken Kelly talk about how to deal with your own emotions when counselling clients. ‘Theory with Rory’ takes a look at Dr Stephen Karpman’s Drama Triangle. Finally, the presenters offer tips on managing your time as a trainee counsellor.
In episode 30 of the Counselling Tutor Podcast, Rory Lees-Oakes and Ken Kelly explain the levels of counselling qualification in the UK. ‘Theory with Rory’ takes a look at Dr Bruce Tuckman’s team development model. Last, the presenters examine the difference between the actualising tendency and self-actualising.
In episode 29 of the Counselling Tutor Podcast, Rory Lees-Oakes and Ken Kelly discuss post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). ‘Theory with Rory’ takes a look at the life and work of Elisabeth Kübler-Ross. Finally, the presenters discuss the feelings of overwhelm often faced by students of counselling and psychotherapy.
In episode 28 of the Counselling Tutor Podcast, Rory Lees-Oakes and Ken Kelly discuss online counselling. ‘Theory with Rory’ focuses on cognitive dissonance, and the presenters end by discussing onward referrals in counselling.
In episode 27 of the Counselling Tutor Podcast, Rory Lees-Oakes and Ken Kelly discuss the benefits of keeping a journal and how to do so. ‘Theory with Rory’ looks at John Bowlby’s work on attachment. Finally, the presenters discuss posture in counselling.
In episode 26 of the Counselling Tutor Podcast, Rory Lees-Oakes and Ken Kelly discuss your personal use of social media as a counsellor. ‘Theory with Rory’ examines the Oedipus complex, and the final episode of ‘Person-Centred Business’ looks at paid media (advertising). Last, the presenters discuss personal development (PD) groups.
In episode 25 of the Counselling Tutor Podcast, Rory Lees-Oakes and Ken Kelly discuss introjected values. ‘Theory with Rory’ looks at Gerard Egan’s model of counselling, and ‘Person-Centred Business’ suggests what pages and content you will need on your website. Finally, the presenters discuss gender in counselling.
In episode 24 of the Counselling Tutor Podcast, Rory Lees-Oakes and Ken Kelly discuss how to choose the modality you will practise. ‘Theory with Rory’ looks at irrational thoughts, and ‘Person-Centred Business’ explains how to build a website. Last, the presenters suggest how to deal with personal triggers as a counsellor.
In episode 23 of the Counselling Tutor Podcast, Rory Lees-Oakes and Ken Kelly discuss lone working. ‘Theory with Rory’ looks at stereotyping, and ‘Person-Centred Business’ explains how to create a brochure about your services. Finally, the presenters describe how to get the referencing right in your assignments.
In episode 22 of the Counselling Tutor Podcast, Rory Lees-Oakes and Ken Kelly talk about client confidentiality and its many grey areas. ‘Theory with Rory’ looks at the actualising tendency, and ‘Person-Centred Business’ considers offering a free initial meeting in private practice. The presenters conclude the podcast by discussing the importance of research in practice.
In episode 21 of the Counselling Tutor Podcast, Rory Lees-Oakes and Ken Kelly talk about what to do when a client asks us a question. ‘Theory with Rory’ looks at erotic and eroticised transference, while ‘Person-Centred Business’ explains how to create an ‘elevator pitch’ (concise statement of what you offer). Finally, the presenters discuss pacing and care for self in counselling placements.
In episode 20 of the Counselling Tutor Podcast, Rory Lees-Oakes and Ken Kelly discuss the dilemma of gifts from clients. Rory then explains Maslow’s hierarchy of needs, and Ken – in ‘Person-Centred Business’ – looks at what to do following a telephone or email enquiry from a client. Last, the presenters discuss counselling placements.
In episode 19 of the Counselling Tutor Podcast, Rory Lees-Oakes and Ken Kelly talk about the Saturday Book Club, and how to read academic books. ‘Theory with Rory’ looks at empathy, while ‘Person-Centred Business’ covers how to request and take payment from clients in private practice. Finally, the presenters discuss the importance of insurance.
Reading Academic Books
In the Saturday Book Club on the Counselling Tutor Facebook group – which now has nearly 3,000 members – Rory reviews useful text books in plain English. Various publishers have recently donated copies of key books, which members will have the chance to win in competitions.
Rory and Ken give two top tips for reading academic books:
- Don’t try to read these books from start to finish; this can be overwhelming. Start at the index, looking up the specific topic you are studying, and then dip in to read the relevant parts.
- Map out where the important information is within the books, for example using sticky notes and highlighter pens. Do not be afraid to write in your books, if that is helpful to you.
Theory of Empathy
Episode 5 of The Counselling Tutor Podcast covered empathy as a skill; now, Rory looks at the theory of empathy.
The term ‘empathy’, applied to counselling and psychotherapy, refers to being in the client’s frame of reference, experiencing the world as they see and feel it. The word is derived from:
- the Greek pathos, meaning ‘emotion’, ‘feeling’, ‘suffering’ or ‘pity’
- the German Einfühlung, meaning ‘into feeling’ or ‘in feeling’, coined by the German philosopher Robert Wischer in his doctoral thesis in 1873 to describe the human capacity to enter into the emotional content of art and literature.
British psychologist Edward Bradford Titchener first translated Einfühlung into English – as ‘empathy’ – in 1909. Since then, there have been many attempts to define this concept. Particularly well-known is the work of Carl Rogers, who wrote a paper for the Journal of Consulting Psychology in 1957 entitled ‘The Necessary and Sufficient Conditions of Therapeutic Personality Change’. He describes ‘empathy’ as follows (1957, p. 98):
‘To sense the client's private world as if it were your own, but without ever losing the “as if” quality – this is empathy, and this seems essential to therapy. To sense the client's anger, fear, or confusion as if it were your own, yet without your own anger, fear, or confusion getting bound up in it, is the condition we are endeavoring to describe.’
Empathy was also a key focus of the work of US psychologists Charles Truax and Robert Carkhuff, who created the Empathy Scale, available as a free download in Counselling Tutor Podcast episode 8.
Rory explains the four types of empathy: affective, cognitive, receptive and expressed. Empathy has been written about in detail by Dave Mearns and Mick Cooper in their book, Working at Relational Depth in Counselling and Psychotherapy (see ‘Links and Resources’). These authors (2005, p. xii) define ‘relational depth’ as ‘a state of profound contact and engagement between two people, in which each person is fully real with the Other, and able to understand and value the Other’s experiences at a high level’.
Neuroscientific perspectives on empathy have examined brain structure in relation to empathy, with members of the Max Planck Institute identifying the right supramarginal gyrus as key, and mirror neurones also playing an important role.
Regardless of the scientific explanation for empathy, the human experience of being heard, understood and validated is one of the greatest gifts that one person can give another.
Requesting and Taking Payment
It can feel difficult to ask clients for payment, especially if you have been accustomed to working without charge (e.g. on placement). The client may have shared heavy, personal material, and it can feel strange to turn then to the topic of money. Key tips include:
- Remember that this arrangement has already been made clear in contracting – so the client is expecting to pay.
- Ask yourself what makes you feel uncomfortable about it; some self-development work may be needed here.
- Prepare an invoice or receipt in advance and put it in an envelope with the client’s name on; handing this to them at the session end will serve as a payment reminder.
- Offer people ways to pay other than just cash, including payment in advance. Although it is expensive and complicated to register for a merchant account (so you can take card payments directly), PayPal and Stripe both offer cost-effective alternatives for small businesses.
Insurance
The new Ethical Framework for the Counselling Professions (BACP, 2016, p. 6) requires: ‘We will be covered by adequate insurance when providing services directly or indirectly to the public.’ Rory and Ken underline the importance of:
- taking out your own insurance (even if covered by your agency’s policy), to protect yourself
- shopping around to find the best deal
- reading your policy carefully, especially if you work with children
- seeing your insurer as a source of valuable professional support and advice.
Links and Resources
Working at Relational Depth in Counselling and Psychotherapy by Dave Mearns and Mick Cooper (Sage, 2005)
Counselling Tutor Facebook group
Counselling Tutor website
In episode 18 – as the Counselling Tutor Podcast comes of age! – Rory Lees-Oakes and Ken Kelly discuss how to deal with a mismatch between theory and practice. ‘Theory with Rory’ looks at Petruska Clarkson’s five-relationship model, while in ‘Person-Centred Business’, Ken provides a guide to stress-free business-planning. Last, the presenters explain the difference between quantitative and qualitative research.
Theory and Practice Working with real clients is very different from working with peers in college, who are familiar with the concept of counselling, and understand the various boundaries (e.g. to respect time limits, and not to make doorknob disclosures). It is not uncommon for clients in the real world to appear not to fit so well with counselling theory.
Rory and Ken provide a number of tips on how to deal with this situation:
- Make sure you train on an experiential course (i.e. one that is taught face-to-face, and that includes skills practice).
- Be aware of other modalities than your own (e.g. psychodynamic and cognitive-behavioural); there are many different therapeutic modalities, each with a related but different set of theory.
- Treat theory as a guide only.
- Remember that having a client who appears not to fit with theory does not mean you are getting something wrong.
- Focus simply on being with the client the best you can; the therapeutic relationship is key.
Five-Relationship Model South-African psychotherapist Petruska Clarkson developed a model of relationship-building that can inform both counselling and supervision relationships. Interested in Gestalt therapy, she came to the UK in the 1970s. Her model is based on integrative therapy, but is applicable to all modalities.
In the 1950s, Carl Rogers had written a paper entitled ‘The Necessary and Sufficient Conditions of Therapeutic Personality Change’, published in the Journal of Consulting Psychology. This introduced the idea that the therapeutic relationship is key, and three of the conditions – congruence, unconditional positive regard and empathy, which have subsequently become known as the ‘core conditions’ – have come to be accepted by practitioners of all modalities as vital to establishing this relationship.
In 1995, Clarkson wrote a book entitled The Therapeutic Relationship (revised in 2003).Clarkson talked about ‘intersubjective relationships’ (how we connect to others) and ‘intrapsychic relationships’ (how we connect to ourselves). Rory explains the five intersubjective relationships, and provides some real-life examples of these:
- The working alliance forms the basis of the client–therapist (or therapist–supervisor) relationship, and includes the contract. It focuses on building a shared understanding and foundation, so that if the relationship falters, both parties can return to this stage and try to repair it.
- The transferential/countertransferential relationship refers to the idea that we may remind a client of someone from their past, or vice versa, and the related feelings from the past may be transferred to the present, so affecting the therapeutic relationship. If this happens, it is important to explore the issue in supervision.
- The reparative/developmentally needed relationship is based on the client viewing the therapist as a parent figure to support them during the personal growth that takes place in therapy. This may be especially so for clients who experienced poor parenting as youngsters. In time, the client begins to trust their own judgement and so needs the therapist less (at which point therapy comes to an end).
- The person-to-person relationship draws on the work of Martin Buber regarding ‘I–Thou’ (as opposed to ‘I–It’) relationships – i.e. the development of a real emotional connection (which makes counselling a unique profession, differentiating it even from other caring professions).
- The transpersonal relationship is hard to define, but describes a spiritual connection between people.
Business Planning Ken explains how to tackle the important exercise of business planning in a way that is not hard or time-consuming. He describes the key questions to think about and answer:
- What will be the name of your business?
- What is your vision for the business?
- What is your target market?
- What exactly do you sell?
- What makes your business different from others?
- How will you market your business?
- What are your goals, and how will you achieve them?
You can download Ken’s template to help you work through his process.
Qualitative and Quantitative Research Qualitative research collects data that describes the quality of experience, while quantitative research gathers data relating to quantity (i.e. facts and figures). Each type of research has its pros and cons, and often the two can be combined for strong research results; a balance is important.
For example, quantitative research is good for measuring things, providing objective statistics, but can be narrow and requires very careful choice and phrasing of questions. Qualitative research is open-ended and potentially more flexible, but is time-consuming and may be subject to researcher bias.
Look out for Rory’s Short Guide to Research for Counsellors, available through our Counselling Study Resource (CSR).
Links and Resources
The Therapeutic Relationship by Petruska Clarkson (Wiley-Blackwell, second edition, 2003)
Counselling Tutor Facebook group
In episode 17 of the Counselling Tutor Podcast – the first in season 2 – Rory Lees-Oakes and Ken Kelly talk about returning to study after the summer break. ‘Theory with Rory’ looks at defence mechanisms, while Ken introduces a new segment, ‘Person-Centred Business’, with ideas on using your counselling skills to earn money. Finally, the presenters turn to the new Ethical Framework for the Counselling Professions, published by the British Association for Counselling and Psychotherapy (BACP).
Returning to Study * Rory and Ken discuss the challenges and opportunities of returning to study after a break, offering various tips: * Keep calm – you will be given time to settle back into an existing course, or to find your way around at a new one. * Try to enjoy the chance to meet new people. * Use a diary to help you plan your time. * Share your experiences on the Counselling Tutor Facebook group (see ‘Links and Resources’). * Reflect on what going back to study means to you. * Check out the new slot on the Counselling Tutor blog written by current students documenting their training journeys.
Defence Mechanisms Sigmund Freud was the first to describe defence mechanisms, which are subconscious processes we put into place when we find a situation difficult.
The psychodynamic view of the human psyche suggests there are three parts of personality: the id, ego and super-ego. To compare the personality to an iceberg, the id is below the water and so we are unconscious of it, while the ego and super-ego appear above the water and so in our consciousness.
The id drives our primitive and instinctive urges (it is our ‘wild child’); Freud believed we are born only with the id, and that the ego and super-ego develop at three to five years of age. The id remains throughout life and demands our immediate attention.
The super-ego, meanwhile, is our ‘super-parent’. Comprising the conscience and the ideal self, it strives for perfection and is driven by values introjected by our parents and society. Falling short of its rigorous standards leaves us feeling guilty.
The ego is part of the id that has been modified by the outside world and has the unenviable task of acting as communicator between the ‘wild child’ and the ‘super-parent’. In this role, it strives for realism so that we can fit into – and be accepted by – the social world.
We use defence mechanisms to protect ourselves from anxiety and/or guilt – when we feel threatened, or when the id or super-ego becomes too demanding. Freud originally identified seven defence mechanisms:
- repression – pushing away a thought or feeling (which might then leak out in a ‘Freudian slip’)
- denial – refusing to accept that something exists or has happened
- projection – taking an aspect of self and putting it onto someone else
- rationalisation – creating an acceptable but incorrect explanation for a situation
- intellectualisation – thinking about something logically without any attached emotion
- reaction formation – doing the opposite of what you would like to do
- regression – acting as a child might if they did not get their own way.
Rory illustrates all these defence mechanisms with real-life examples.
The concept of defence mechanisms was later developed further by Anna Freud (Sigmund’s daughter) and others; they took a wider and deeper view of these, identifying more mechanisms.
Person-Centred Business In this exciting new slot, Ken asks us to reflect on why we might find it hard to ‘sell’ ourselves and our skills.
If we are truly happy to work voluntarily after qualification, that is fine, but equally it is reasonable to want to be paid as we have invested time, energy and money in our training. Because counsellors want to help people, they may feel it is wrong to charge for this. But doctors and nurses are paid for their helping work.
Over coming weeks – if you would find it helpful – Ken will use his background in marketing to present ideas and strategies for how to use your counselling qualification to make money. In this, mind-set is key. So challenge your own thinking and self-concept: how do you feel about making money from counselling, and why?
Rory recommends The Art of War by Sun Tzu to help get into the right mind-set (see ‘Links and Resources’).
BACP New Ethical Framework On 1 July 2016, the BACP launched its new Ethical Framework for the Counselling Professions. Key changes include the following:
The framework is now written very clearly, in plain English, making it more accessible to members of the public.
It includes a duty of candour – that is, to speak out if you see dangerous behaviour by other professionals.
Student counsellors have an explicit duty to inform clients they are in training.
All counsellors must now keep notes.
If you are a member of the Counselling Study Resource (CSR), look out for a CSR live lecture replay on this topic, covered on 4 September 2016.
Links and Resources
The Art of War by Sun Tzu (Pax Librorum, 2009)
https://www.amazon.co.uk/Art-War-Sun-Tzu/dp/0981162614
Counselling Tutor Facebook group
https://www.facebook.com/groups/472203952972076/?ref=bookmarks
This episode of the Counselling Tutor podcast marks the season 1 finale as Rory and Ken are closing down for the UK academic break summer. Topics covered are selfceare for counsellors, Rory gives and overview of Gestalt therapy and Ken speaks about how you can sharpen the skills you have leaned in season one. We end with a debate about how as counsellors we grow during training and what affect this can have on relationships.
Season 1 of the podcast has been a privilege and we hope that you will take some time to review what we have done and let us know what you would like to see more on in season 2.
This episode kicks off with a chat about selfceare as a counsellor. Counselling is demanding on self as we give our own in the therapeutic relationship to be there with the client. it is important to balance being with others with adequate self care so that we as counsellors may remain healthy in ourselves.
In the Theory session Rory gives an overview of Gestalt therapy.
Key Terms in Gestalt
- Introjection : Are ways we are told to live our life by others ( Parents, Caregivers, Teachers) we literally ‘swallow’ and believe what we are told.
- Projection: Places their own emotions or issues on someone else.
- Retroflection: Someone who splits themselves, for example “I hate myself” the idea that the person is almost talking about someone else.
- Deflection: Any technique, which distracts the client from owning there own issues , distraction of excessive use of humour , changing the subject etc.
- Confluence: A merging of self with others or something, lacking boundaries. Not having any idea where you stop and the other person begins
Skills with Ken is about how we can become more proficient in the use of counselling skills. Ken outlines some ideas that can take your skills practice to the next level.
Thanks for being part of season 1 of the Counselling Tutor podcast. Season 2 will start in September of 2016 and we do hope you will join us. Be sure to have your name on our newsletter to ensure you get an update when the next season goes live.
In this weeks episode of the Counselling Tutor Podcast Rory and ken cover the topic of counselling children and adolescents. Rory takes a look at the Transactional Analysis theory of Scripts, Drivers and Injunctions. Ken speaks about making appropriate referrals in counselling and we end with a debate on progression.
Counselling young people is a specialism that requires additional training post graduation. Rory and Ken explore some of the challenges of working with children and adolescents and they share some resources that will be useful if you would like to learn more about the subject.
Scripts, Drivers and Injunctions
In Theory with Rory, Rory explains the TA theory of Scripts Injunctions and Drivers and how we can identify these presentations in our practice.
Appropriate referrals in counselling
As counsellor you will have occasion to refer clients to other services. Ken speaks about what makes a referral appropriate, what we should look out for and he speaks about respectful ways we can work with referrals.
Progression
What happens when you graduate as a qualified counsellor? are there work opportunities out there? these are just two of the questions that Rory and Ken debate on this interesting topic of life after study.
In this weeks episode of the Counselling Tutor Podcast Rory and Ken bring a valued packed episode number 14. This time of year many counselling courses are requiring assignments to evidence where learners are in their study. We look at assignment referrals and what learning we can take from this. Rory continues on from last week in his exploration of the Nineteen Propositions. Ken speaks about the importance that rapport building has in counselling and we close off by debating the difference between eclectic counselling and integrative therapeutic working.
Assignment Time
Many learners will be, either preparing for or, actively working on counselling assignments as we approach the end of the UK academic year. Ken and Rory speak about the dreaded assignment referral and how it can be viewed as a positive rather than a negative.
19 Propositions Part 2
Rory kicked off part 1 of the 10 propositions in episode 13 of the Counselling Tutor Podcast. In todays episode he picks up from where he left off continuing with propositions 8 to 12 of this Person Centred theory.
Rapport building and attentiveness
Rapport is a basic building block of any therapeutic relationship. Ken examines what rapport in counselling is and how it presents itself in the counsellor client relationship. Ken explains the key concepts of rapport and looks at how we ac counsellors can create an environment where rapport can grow organically.
Integrative Counselling vs Eclectic Counselling
In ask Rory and Ken we answer the question “what is the difference between eclectic and integrative counselling. This is an interesting topic and you will get to hear how Rory uses soup to explain the difference.
n this weeks episode of the Counselling Tutor podcast Rory and Ken explore the effect of having interpreters or careers in the counselling relationship. Rory digs deep into Carl Rogers’ 19 Propositions while Ken speaks about Metaphor and Simile in the therapeutic relationship. We end with a debate about your philosophy of counselling and how this affects your practice going forward.
3rd Person in the Room
How would you work with a client who has an interpreter or carer who needs to be in the room?
Having someone other than the client in the counselling relationship poses certain challenges.
We need to be mindful at contracting stage that the contract needs to cover all parties in the therapy room.
Confidentiality is tricky and dependent on the professionalism of the interpreter. As counsellors we train and understand why the clients confidentiality is important however this may not be true of carers or interpreters.
The main consideration is the clients content that the carer or interpreter by present and I feel that the client should be explained the risks as far as confidentiality goes.
Recording clients therapeutic sessions can also be viewed as having a third person in the room.
Carl Rorgers' Nineteen Propositions Part 02
Rory picks up where part 01 left off and examines the remaining of the Nineteen Propositions
Simile and Metaphor in Counselling
In skills with Ken we speak about how powerful metaphor can be in counselling. Ken explains the difference between metaphor and simile where we might see them present within our therapeutic relationship with a client.
Metaphorical language is a cultural understanding between people using pictorial type words or sentences. Metaphor in counselling ties into empathy. The client perceives there is a shared understanding and this can take the therapeutic relationship to a deeper level.
We discuss the dangers of looking at metaphor from our own self constructs and how we should always check our understanding to make sure we are in the clients frame of reference.
Philosophy in Counselling
Your philosophical views are individual and will make you an individual counsellor. Rory and Ken debate how personal philosophy guides practice and how this can change over the years.
In the 1960’s Abraham Maslow developed a theory called ‘Self Actualisation. This was linked to his later theory we know as Maslow’s Triangle or Maslow hierarchy of needs.
Carl Rogers was influenced by Maslow's’ theory and adopted self actualisation as a core principle in his Person Centered Approach to counselling. Ken and Rory debate the concept of self actualisation and they examine the different stages of Maslow’s higher achy of needs.
Professor Tim Bond is the major author of the new BACP Ethical Framework that will come into effect in the UK on the 1st July 2016.
Under the heading Ethics, part 7 reads “A decision or course of action does not necessarily become unethical merely because it is controversial or because other practitioners would have reached different conclusions in similar circumstances. A practitioner’s obligation is to consider all the relevant circumstances with as much care as possible and to be appropriately accountable for decisions made.” BACP Ethical Framework of Good Practice June 2015
The importance of defensible decision making is paramount for any practitioner and being able to appropriately account for our decisions means having a formal process to follow.
Professor Tim Bond developed the Ethical Problem Solving Matrix which is a document that walks the therapist through a series of questions. The questions are carefully worded to get the counsellor to consider and respond to various aspects of the ethical dilemma. In completing the questions, the counsellor is appropriately accounting for the decision. This matrix is helpful to use before a decision is made and can in some instances highlight issues that may well lead the counsellor to a different decision to the one original thought.
Seven Stages of Process Part 2
Ken delves deeper into Carl Rogers 7 stages of process focusing on stages 4 to 7. In last weeks episode Ken looked at the first 3 of the 7 Stages of Process, this weeks episode builds on this by linking Rogers’ theory to what we may se in practice.
What s the difference between counselling and psychotherapy?
The debate as to who can call themselves a counsellor and who can claim the title psychotherapist has been around for some time.
In this weeks Ask Rory and Ken, Ken and Rory explore what the terms mean to them and how the BACP view this.
Note Taking - Transactional Analysis - 7 Stages of Process in Practice and Supervision In this weeks episode of the Counselling Tutor Podcast Rory and Ken look at note taking for counsellors. Rory explores the ego states of Transactional Analysis. In Skills with Ken the seven stages of process are related to practice. Ken and Rory end the podcast speaking about how to best use supervision.
Counsellor Note Taking Rory and Ken discuss note taking for counsellors and look at some interesting ways of keeping notes.
Record are kept for 6 years then destroyed. They and act as a memory jog allowing counsellors to organise thoughts and feelings enabling reflection and planning.
Counsellor Notes reflect only fact; not professional opinions. Keeping notes non specific helps if they are obtained via a court order and used against the client.
The counsellor may keep a process diary to reflect personal observations. Records are also important for use if a complaint is raised against the counsellor to a professional body or legal action.
A lockable, fire proof secure filing system with strict restriction on access should be considered. Files may be kept anonymous by split filing where identifying information is stored in the organisation locked cabinet and given a number.
The counsellor keeps notes with a number and no distinguishing detail. If lost or stolen the information is non identifiable. The split note system is less effective in a multi disciplinary organisation or where correspondence and reports are regularly produced. With computer storage of records password protection is necessary particularly when mailing client files. The data protection Act 1998 entitles individuals to be informed of any records of them kept on computer and allows them access to those records about themselves.
Clients may request their written reports, counsellors working in social services are required by the Access to personal Files Act 1987 to allow clients access.
Transactional Analysis Rory explains the PAC Ego State model of Eric Bernes' TA. This theory packed episode gives you some real life examples of how the Adaptive Child, Critical Parent and Adult ego states present in our day to day lives.
7 Stages of Process
Rogers thought there were seven stages that he could observe, and they enabled him to see whether his clients were making progress in therapy, or whether they seemed to be stuck, for a time unable to move on. Although the process can be erratic, clients do, in general progress step by step, building on their experiences at one stage before moving on to the next. Only when people feel accepted and understood at one stage, do they feel able to take the next step.
This process scale is quite complex, but here we give a simplified version to show the basic characteristics of each of the seven stages.
Very few people enter therapy at a particular stage and go on through to stage seven. Many leave therapy at an earlier point, and if therapy has been successful for them, content that real and meaningful change has happened.
Remember that this Process Scale represents an idealised view of the therapeutic process, it indicates the flow of events in a very general way. Each person will experience therapy differently, will have different concerns, and will be content to leave therapy at different points. It is useful as a way of thinking about the process that we go through on the journey towards becoming fully functioning, it isn't a prescription of what we must do in order to get there.
How to Use Your Counselling Supervision In Ask Rory and Ken the topic turns to how we can get the most out of our relationship with our supervisor.
In this episode of the Counselling tutor Podcast Rory takes a close look at Albert Ellis’ REBT, Ken talks about endings in counselling and in Ask Ken and Rory we debate ethics vests culture in counselling.
Albert Ellis developed the behavioural therapy Rational Emotive Behavioural Therapy known as REBT. Rory gives some examples that explain how the ABC model of (A) activating event leads to (B) a faulty belief that results in (C) consequences. Rory gives us some real life examples of how the belief can be (D) disputed using (E) evidence.
Endings in Counselling
In Skills with Ken we take a look at ending the counselling relationship which is sometimes called termination.
“Termination is more than an act signifying the end of therapy, it is an integral part of the process of therapy and, if properly understood and managed, may be an important factor in the instigation of change” Irvin Yalom
Some students taking counselling courses find endings tricky to navigate because they are tied into a resistance to change that a client may feel and endings can key into our natural tendency to avoid loss.
Ken looks at the 3 stages of a planned ending
Assessing the clients readiness to end therapy
Seeking closer of the presenting issues that brought the client into counselling
empowering the client and aiming for an increase in self resilience linked into the client’s self belief.
Ken explores some best practice when ending a counselling relationship as well as looking at different types of endings counsellors are likely to encounter.
Holidays and breaks
Planned Endings
Unplanned endings
How endings effect you as the counsellor
Endings of session
In ask Ken and Rory we address a question that revolves around the topic of ethics and culture.
Sometimes we find that ethics and culture clash and it is important to know where to stand when you find yourself in such a tricky situation.
In this weeks episode of the Counselling Tutor podcast Rory and Ken look at Power in the therapeutic relationship, Rory shares a biography of Carl Rogers, Ken looks at the skill of challenge and we end with a debate about Psychopathology and how it varies from the Person Centred Approach.
This weeks question comes from Anne Walker who asks We are talking about power role in a therapeutic relationship. Who has the power how does it shift Etc. Just wondered your thoughts are.
Power in Counselling
Ken and Rory explore how one of the roles of the therapist is to pick up on any perceived power differences the client may perceive.
The first task is to determine the basis of such a perception, which could be around the
client's own feelings of vulnerability, which may drove him or her to seek counselling in
the first place.
It could also be due perception, that the client feels that the therapist is an expert in
psychology which may make them feel inferior or someone who needs to be ‘treated' for a
mental illness.
Whatever the basis for it, once the reason for the power perception is determined, the
therapist can work to relieve it.
One way to accomplish this is by building rapport with the client, this can be done simply
by asking non therapeutic questions about the client’s friends or family, just be thoughtful
not to be intrusive or nosey.
Showing genuine interest in what the client says can produce an environment in which the
client feels more understood and therefore more equal.
Sometimes considered self disclosure by the therapist can produce a greater sense of
empathy, by offering experiences from their own life which may connect with a client’s
experience of themselves.
Once mutual trust and empathy are established, the client can feel safe enough to begin
to access their own resources of self trust and respect – sometimes known in person
centred terms as Organismic valuing.
Biography of Carl Rogers
Rory has a special interest in the life and work of Carl Rogers. In this episode of Theory with Rory he dives into some lesser known facts about the founder of the Person Centered Approach to counselling.
This is a very interesting look at the man and his work and I am certain you will get some good facts that you can use for your assignments.
The skill of Challenge in counselling
Ken looks at the advanced skill of challenge in the therapeutic relationship.
Challenge can be defined as the counsellor highlighting incongruence between the client's verbal and nonverbal communication in order to facilitate the client's awareness of conflicts associated with specific issues of topics.
We explore the dangers of using challenge too early in the therapeutic relationship and Ken speaks about high challenge needing a base of high support.
Ken covers some examples of gentle challenge and we look at what effects good challenge can bring about in the counselling relationship.
In Ask Ken And Rory, we debate a question posted by Nicola Puma.
“I was just wondering if one of your podcasts could include information on psychopathology, specifically the person centred approach vs the medical model”
Join in the debate and add your thoughts on this interesting topic on the Counselling Tutor Facebook Group.
In this weeks episode of the Counselling Tutor Podcast Rory and Ken look at the difference between simulated skills practice and using counselling skills with clients in the real world. Rory looks at the theory of the hidden conditions of Carl Rogers and Ken explores the counselling skill immediacy. The podcast ends with a discussion on what therapeutic process is and how you can identify when it is taking place.
We received a question asking “Does anybody else find skills practice completely different to working with real clients?”
Rory and Ken debate the differences between simulated skills sessions and counselling skills in a live session. Counselling courses require students to practice counselling skills with peers and this can sometimes feel unauthentic. It is important to realise that practice skills sessions are exactly that, to practice. It’s a safe environment to try out the various techniques and to get feedback of from peers and tutors. I guess it’s like practising to swim the channel. You will train in a pool which is not at all like the real channel however if you did not train, it is unlikely you would succeed.
In Counselling Theory with Rory, Rory examines the hidden conditions of Carl Rogers.
Carl Rogers identified 6 conditions as being necessary and sufficient to bring about about constructive personality change. Often we hear about the Core Conditions which describe 3 of the 6 conditions. Rory looks at the therapists conditions or lost conditions of psychological contact, the clients incongruence between experience and awareness and the client perceiving, at least to a minimal degree, the therapists unconditional positive regard and emphatic understanding within the relationship.
Immediacy in counselling
Immediacy is recognised as an advanced counselling skill. Immediacy is sometimes misunderstood and as a result under used.
Ken explains what immediacy is and how it can effect the counselling relationship. Ken outlines the dangers of this skill and looks at when it is appropriate to use it in therapy.
Immediacy is the therapist bringing the “here and now” into focus by sharing something that is going on in the counsellors own awareness. Some may call this a gut feel or a hunch and it can feel risky sharing immediacy with a client.
When the counsellor gets it wrong, the result can be a momentary fracturing of the therapeutic relationship. For this reason, immediacy should only be used when trust has developed and the therapeutic relationship has relational depth.
When immediacy resonates with the client it is almost magical. The client feels they are truly understood and the relationship is taken to a deeper level.
Listen as Ken explains how you can use the counselling skill immediacy in your sessions.
Therapeutic Process in counselling definition
To give a definition of therapeutic process in counselling we need to identify what modality is being used. Rory and Ken debate what therapeutic process is and give different examples of how it shows in various therapeutic settings.
Therapeutic process continues outside of the counselling room as the client works through the material that was brought into awareness during the session.
Therapeutic process can be described as the progression of the counselling relationship from Initial disclosure through exploration to commitment to action. Therapeutic process can also be the process that happens within the client as they move from rigidity to fluidity and becoming a more fully functioning person.
In this weeks episode of the Counselling Tutor Podcast Ken and Rory look at Phenomenology - Therapeutic Pace - Skill of Questioning and BACP Accredited courses for those who wish to study counselling.
A question that came in through our Counselling Tutor Facebook Group asked
“I have noticed that I find it challenging to balance client needs when they come in and want results fast, effectively putting pressure on me as a clinician to perform quickly and efficiently.” Isiah Palm.
Rory and Ken discuss the pace of therapy and how separate a clients expectations over progress from our own want to meet those expectations.
In Theory with Rory, Rory looks at Phenomenology a philosophical recognition that the world as we perceive it is based on the structures of experience we have had.
The historical movement of phenomenology was developed in the first half of the 20th century by philosophers and thinkers such Edmund Husserl, Martin Heidegger, Maurice Merleau-Ponty, and Jean-Paul Sartre to name but a few,, although the basic ideas can be traced back to the Greek philosopher Plato.
It was the German philosopher Edmund Husserl who developed a set of ideas which is sometimes referred to as descriptive psychology.
The study of experience or consciousness as experienced from your point of view, sometimes referred to as your frame of reference, and includes perception, habits, social; practices , language and feelings.
So why is phenomenology such an important philosophical component in therapies such as Gestalt, Transactional Analysis and Humanistic approaches?
Carl Rogers refers to the phenomenological field in his 19 Propositions which puts phenomenology at the heart of the Person Centred Approach to Counselling.
This weeks counselling skill is the skill of appropriate questioning. Ken delves deep into what makes a question appropriate and we look at how the counselling process can be derailed by inappropriate questions. Ken also explores what we can use instead of questions to get clarification test keep the client within a feelings based response.
BACP accredited courses for counsellors
What makes a course BACP accredited and what does that really mean?
This weeks Ask Ken and Rory looks at the way that counselling courses are structured. Often learners ask whether their course is BACP accredited, often they are not. Find out what happens if your course is not accredited by the BACP and how you can still end up with the same level of BACP membership even if you are on a non BACP accredited counselling course.
In this weeks episode of the Counselling Tutor podcast Rory and Ken give some counselling assignment tips. In Theory with Rory you will learn about Conditions of Worth and in Counselling Skills with Ken we explore the skill of focusing. The episode ends with a look at ways we can measure our own self development as a student counsellor during our training.
Counselling Assignment Tips
Rory has been lecturing and training counsellors for over an decade and in that time he has seen what the most common mistakes are that cause assignments to be referred.
Rory shares his top tips to give you the best chance of getting through the assignments stress free.
Rory has written a number of counselling assignment help guides that have helped student counsellors through the world and in todays episode he gives away a book that is part of his assignment help guide.
The book Getting Your Assignment in Order - Top Tips to improve your counselling assignment is packed full of helpful information for anyone on a counselling course.
Conditions of Worth
In Counselling Theory with Rory, Rory looks at Carl Rogers’ Conditions of Worth and gives us some real life examples.
Conditions of worth are the messages we take on board about what we have to do to be valued. Conditions of worth are, and can be very subtle.
Nevertheless, this subtlety is all the more powerful
Rogers Stated
“The need for self-regard or approval is enormous. Children are influenced by their parents and society and strive for approval by doing things to please them which make them feel more loved or valued
. However, if their behaviour does not meet with their approval they feel less loved. They may then experience incongruence between self and experience and this may lead to psychological maladjustment hindering personal growth towards self-actualisation (Rogers)”
The process of clients moving away from operating on conditions of worth and toward their true self
And includes moving
¥ Away from facades
¥ Away from “oughts”
¥ Away from pleasing others
Moving towards
¥ self-direction
¥ openness to experience
¥ A greater trust in self.
¥ A greater respect for and understanding of others,
The Skill of Focusing
In Counselling Skills with Ken, Ken focuses on the skill of focusing. Firstly it is worth mentioning that Focusing, in counselling at least, is sometimes misunderstood. Focusing is not concentrating more deeply of paying closer attention. Focusing is inviting the client to look more deeply at a pice of material that they have brought.
You will hear live examples of the skill of focusing used in a simulated skills session and you will get to see the effect this has within the session.
“Measuring personal development during your counselling training” is the topic covered in Ask Ken and Rory.
Personal development is by its very nature personal. This means it will vary from person to person and there is no template or graph to measure your own development. That said, you can always look to our own experience as an indicator of how you perceive you have grown or developed. Some learners report having “lightbulb moments” during their counselling training, moments when they feel a shift has taken place within self. Other students experience small moments of movements that, when added together, may be seen as growth.
In this podcast episode you will hear some personal development ideas as Ken and Rory debate the topic.
This episode of the Counselling Tutor podcast kicks off with Ken and Rory exploring the roll of the Personal Develop Group. Rory presents a critique of Carl Rogers and Ken delves into idiosyncratic empathy. The episode ends with a debate about what student counsellors should be mindful of what looking for a counselling placement.
A big part of studying counselling is self growth and the “personal development group” (PD) or “process group” acts as a respectful and safe place to explore self.
Carl Rogers called the PD group an Encounter Group and towards the end of his career Rogers facilitated many such groups throughout the world.
Rory and Ken discuss the roll of the process group and they look at some of the challenges that counselling students may face within the group.
In this weeks “Counselling Theory With Rory” we look at a critique of the person centred approach to counselling. Rory looks at the arguments against Carl Roger’s work and the varying views of the various schools of therapy.
The first, is what could be classified, as a sociological critique, the idea that the very roots of Person Centred Therapy are founded in a specific country and more to the point gained prominence in specific period in history.
The second argument against Rogers’s ideas is that notion of the Core conditions being necessary and sufficient for therapeutic change to occur, may not be true in some client presentations
One of the most popular criticisms , is referred to as the ‘Masson Critique’,
In 1990 Jeffery Masson PhD, a former psychotherapist published a book entitled ‘Against therapy’ .
In it he critiqued all the main schools of therapy, in the chapter entitled ‘The problem with benevolence’, Masson turned his attention to the work of Carl rogers
“What guarantee is there, what guarantee could there possibly be , that any given therapist is the genuine person Rogers posits him to be? The unconditional positive regard that Rogers wants the therapist to feel is something that cannot be legislated in to existence any more than can love…
‘Unconditional positive regard’ is not something that seems either likely or desirable (Masson 1990 , 234 )
In other words the way of being, encapsulated in how the therapist offers the client the conditions of empathy, congruence and un-conditional positive regard, is no more than a ‘professional façade an act put on for the therapy to work
Counselling courses need to focus on both the strengths and weaknesses of the therapeutic models studied so we can learn to recognise when a model may not best suit a clients presentation or need.
In “Counselling Skills With Ken”, Ken explores idiosyncratic empathy.
Empathic connection between counsellor and client is recognised as being necessary for psychological contact to take place.
Empathy is about perception and communication. First the counsellor must perceive the feelings being shared by the client and then communicate back the understanding in such a way that the client feels they have been heard.
The phrase Idiosyncratic empathy was coined by J D Bozarth. He outlined the idea that empathy was dynamic and changed dependent on the context of the therapy. This takes empathy to a deeper level, past mere reflection of words to a more personal and individualistic level that is different in each therapeutic relationship. Empathy is as varied as the different clients we are likely to meet.
In closing Ken and Rory look at counselling placements. A level 4 or higher counselling course will require a certain amount of face to face client hours from the learner. Getting a counselling placement can be challenging so we explore what to look for and offer some tips on making sure the placement opportunity is a fit for you.
In this weeks episode of the Counselling Tutor Podcast Ken and Rory take a look at equality and diversity and how this effects the counselling relationship. In Counselling Theory with Rory, configurations of self is explored and in Counselling Skills with Ken, Ken looks at the opening and closing of the counselling session.
Equality and diversity is defined
Nonmaleficence (do no harm) is an ethical requirement of the BACP, communicating with
clients in a multicultural society is vital in upholding this principle
“The practitioner has an ethical responsibility to strive to mitigate any harm caused
to a client even when the harm is unavoidable or unintended”. The BACP Ethical Framework for Good Practice in Counselling and Psychotherapy.
Embracing multiculturalism means having an understanding of the regulation governing
diversity to eliminate unlawful discrimination, eliminate harassment, promote equal opportunity, respect and celebrate difference and promote good relationships between different groups.
As a student counsellor it is your obligation to understand the legislation that governs equality and diversity, Ken and Rory explore this in depth in this weeks podcast.
Configurations of Self
Rory explores the concept of ‘Configurations of Self’. This theory is relatively new and is linked to the Person-Centred Counselling. Configurations of self was developed by David Mearns and Brian Thorne. It describes the philosophy that we develop various alternative personalities, or configurations, of self that rise up within us in certain circumstances.
‘A configuration of self is a hypothetical construct denoting a coherent pattern of feelings, thoughts and preferred behavioural responses.
This is symbolised, or pre-symbolised, by the person as reflective of a dimension of existence within the self
Many writers have made reference to Carl Rogers’ ideas around conditional positive regard, the idea that a client may limit their own self-acceptance because of fear, shame, regret, embarrassment, anger, or a sense loss they have about themselves or others.
These negative emotions, or constructs, are sometimes referred to as ‘not for growth configurations’.
In other words, the negative side of the personality, the emotional inner voices which brings psychological pain that may hamper both happiness and self-understanding.
By helping the client explore and examine these ‘not for growth configurations’ in a safe and non-threatening and non judgmental environment, it is possible for the client to process these feelings, thoughts and behaviours and begin the process of checking the reality and impact on their lives.
Opening and closing a counselling session
Click here to download the resources pack. The pack contains an auto file of the opening of a session, a transcription of that audio file and an partial assignment exemplar on the topic of opening a counselling session.
The top and tail of a counselling session can seem challenging for some student counsellors. Part of training to become a counsellor involves skills sessions being assessed and the top and tail of the sessions often account for a bulk of the marks.
Ken examines the structure of the opening and closing of a counselling session with an academic focus on hitting assessment criteria.
Ken references a live recording of a counselling session opening against a writer report on advanced counselling skills.
The first part of opening a session is to establish boundaries and a working agreement with the client.
Therapeutic Boundaries form rules of engagement; principles mutually agreed and put in
place during contracting for both counsellor and client.
“any good relationship balances the needs and wishes of both parties, and the
counsellor needs clear structure at least as much as the client” Pg 129 skills in
person-centred counselling & Psychotherapy Janet Tolan.
Next the counselling modality is outlined and explained and the client asked if they have any questions. This gives the client choice of whether they feel the modality suits them which in turn may lead to an opportunity for a referral to be made.
Health a safety forms a part of the session opening.
“Potential harm can be avoided or minimised by considering in advance the
requirements, potential dangers and making provision.” (Bond. T 2003)
The clients safety is important. By outlining potential health and safety issues, such as a scheduled fire drill, the client feels valued which builds trust. If safety is overlooked and an emergency arises, it could be grounds for official complaint and a breakdown of nonmaleficence which is an ethical requirement meaning the counsellor do no harm.
Limitations in confidentiality
“The legal concept of confidentiality is based on the idea of equity, or fairness, in
that a person who has received information in confidence should not take unfair
advantage of it.” Peter Jenkins Counselling, Psychotherapy and the Law published by
Sage 2007 page 101
Confidentiality is keeping information and process safe and private with transparency of
who has access and under what condition. This supports respect, autonomy and fidelity
and aids report building. Without confidentiality there’s no trust, a key factor needed for
psychological contact.
Continued Professional Development
In the ask Ken and Rory section of this podcast we look at continued professional development. Ken and Rory discuss different types of CPD and outline potential dangers of mixing modalities while studying counselling.
In this weeks episode on the Counselling Tutor Podcast we explore Transference, countertransference, the skill of paraphrasing, self care as a counsellor and we speak about unconditional positive regard in relation to being non judgmental.
Turning down our Way of Being
Carl Rogers identified that the Person Centred approach to counselling is not about the way you do things but rather it is a way of being. This is all and well however it can pose challenges outside of the therapy room. How do we separate our counselling skills from our everyday life and how do we maintain boundaries between family and friends when they are tempted to bring their problems to us?
Empathy is a way of being we are encouraged to develop as a counsellor but how do we turn that empathic side of us down when we are with family and friends? Do you find yourself slipping into counsellor mode in everyday conversations?
These questions and more are debated in this episode as Ken and Rory explore the volume control that we can use to turn down the conditions we have developed as counsellors.
Transference and Countertransference
In “Theory With Rory”, Rory looks at the dangers of unchecked transference leading to countertransference within our counselling relationships.
Transference, it may be argued, is a necessary part of the therapeutic relationship as it aids empathic understanding. The term transference originates from psychoanalysis and the original definition of transference can be summed up as “a redirection of, mostly unconscious, feelings and desires rooted in childhood that are directed towards a new object or person”.
Sigmund Freud was the first to describe transference and recognise its importance in understanding the client’s feelings and the idea was embraced by the psychoanalytical practitioners of the time including Carl Jung. Transference is encouraged in psychoanalysis and the therapists non disclosure, or distance in the therapeutic relationship, is theorised to promote transference as the client is likely to make assumptions as to the therapists likes and dislikes about them based on relationships that have experienced with others.
Rory explores what transference is and how this may effect our clients journey, and indeed our own perceptions, in the counselling relationship.
Countertransference
If transference is the redirection of the clients feelings, posable towards the the therapist, countertransference is the redirection of the counsellors feelings towards the client. This muddies the relationship as the therapist is unconsciously treating the client as if they were someone else.
Rory looks at ways to identify countertransference by monitoring self and taking relevant material to supervision.
The Skill of Paraphrasing
Of all the counselling skills the paraphrase is arguably the most widely used. No matter what orientation your counselling practice reflects you are likely to use paraphrasing numerous times during a session with a client.
A Paraphrase is repeating your understanding of the client material back to them in your own words. The counsellor is looking to paraphrase the essence of the material by cutting through the story and focusing on the underlying emotions that the client is bringing.
Paraphrasing in counselling is perhaps often understood and seen as an easy counselling skill requiring little practice to master. Nothing could be further from the truth. A well honed paraphrase is be a powerful skill and can have significant meaning to a client. In todays” Counselling Skills With Ken”, Ken explores this topic in depth with simulated skills session examples that you can listen to.
When a client hears their material back they feel they have been heard and this helps deepen the empathic bond between counsellor and client.
Paraphrasing can be used to invite the client to focus down on a specific part of their material.
We can use paraphrasing as the counsellor to check our understanding of what the client is bringing.
Ken looks at how we can look through the narrative of the clients story and paraphrase not only the material but also the feelings and emotions that underpin what is being spoken about.
Unconditional positive regard and judgement
The topic of UPR comes up often with questions like “how do I practice try UPR and surprise my own natural judgments?”.
Ken and Rory debate this fascinating topic in the professional care section of the Counselling Tutor Podcast.
In this episode Ken Kelly and Rory Lees-Oakes discuss parallel process, Carl Rogers' 7 Stages of Process and the skill of reflection.
As counsellors we can sometimes find ourselves in a clients material and finding elements of the clients journey that may be simpler to difficulties we have faced ourselves.
As soon as we are referencing our materials and relating it to the clients story we are running a parallel process. The danger is that we may feel the solution we found from our hardship is the solution the client needs to follow and we may find ourselves having an agenda within the therapeutic relationship.
We explore how to recognise parallel process and what we can do to deal with this within ourselves.
The 7 Stages of Process
Rory examines the theory of the 7 stages of process by Carl Rogers.
Carl Rogers theorised that people move through different stages of process from a place of rigidity to becoming a more fully functioning person. Rogers identified that this is not a liner journey and that people were likely to move to and fro through the stages. In essence the 7 stages of process are fluid.
We are unlikely to see clients enter therapy in stage 1 and 2 as they will most likely externalise the reasons for their distress. Clients in these early stages tend to feel their discomfort is caused by others and by circumstance and there is little ability to accept responsibility for own feelings.
Rory explains at what stage we are likely to see clients enter therapy. he looks at how clients move from “it’s you that causes me pain” to “It’s me that holds responsibility for my feelings”
Carl Rogers 7 stages of process
Stage 1: People at stage one will not speak about feelings openly, they are in a place of rigidity. This is a stage of rigidity where blame is external to self. At stage 1 people may make statements like “ If they did such and such then I would feel better”
Stage 2: At Stage two people tend to be slightly less rigid than stage 1. There is still a difficulty accepting that feelings are part of self and there is still a tendency to externalise the source of psychological pain or discomfort. A person at stage 2 may make a stamens like “ It’s not me it’s them. At least I think it’s them. It is isn’t it?” There is almost a slight movement to asking if responsibility should be taken by self but certainly no taking of that responsibility.
Stage 3: We may see a person at stage three enter our therapy room. The person is beginning to consider acceptance of responsibility however there tends to be a generalisation that all people feel as they do. At stage 3 we may here statements like “I feel like this but then everyone does, don't they?” There is a tendency to favour speaking about feelings that are past and less comfort exploring here and now feelings.
Stage 4: At stage four a plaint begins to describe their own feelings. There is still a tendency to focus on past feelings but they are processed more in the here and now. There is a difficulty accepting the feelings as part of self and a tendency to be critical of self for having the feelings in the firs place. We may hear statements like “I feel guilty about that but I shouldn't really”.
Stage 5: Stage five sees clients expressing feelings more openly and being willing to explore the feelings within the here and now. Current feelings are accepted and processed however there is still difficulty for the client in trusting these feelings. It is likely the client will be experiencing moments of movement towards being a more fully functioning person. Clients are likely to express that they are seeing things more clearly. We may hear statements like “I can now see how angry I am at him and I guess I feel ok with that anger considering what I have been through”
Stage 6: At stage six the client is recognising feelings as part of self and holding responsibility for those feelings. The client accepts the feelings and recognises they hold the key to their self actualisation. Feelings flow freely in the here and now and a sense of self acceptance emerges.
We may hear statements like “ I recognise that pain within me and thats ok. I feel accepting of what I did and I feel a warmth and compassion for where I am at. Carl Rogers believed that clients at stage 6 made irreversible progress and that self growth would continue without the counsellor.
Stage 7: At stage seven we are likely to see a fluid, self accepting person who is open to the changes that life presents.
The skill of reflection in counselling
Ken Kelly explores how the skill of reflection can be used by the counsellor in the therapeutic relationship.
Reflection may seem simple as it is merely repeating the clients words back to them as they said then however there is a deeper side to this counselling skill.
You will hear a simulated counselling skills session where reflection is used.
Reflection is used so that the client feels heard. They hear their own words reflected back to them and this can have profound effects on the counselling process.
Counselling Tutor Podcast about contracting in counselling, the skill of silence and theory talk about the core conditions of Carl Rogers.
In this the first podcast episode of the Counselling Tutor Podcast, Ken and Rory speak about contracting as a counsellor. The theory section looks at the Core Conditions of Carl Rogers and in the skills section of the podcast Ken introduces the skill of silence.
The counselling contract As counsellors we are expected to contract with our clients before therapy begins. The British Association for Counselling and Psychotherapy (BACP) recognises contracting in the counselling relationship as part of client autonomy offering respect for the client’s right to be self-governing.
Rory and Ken explore what contracting is and why we need it at the beginning of the therapeutic journey. They look at how legislation effects what might be covered in a therapeutic contract and how the four corner rule applies to us as counsellors.
The Core Conditions of Carl Rogers Rory explores the core conditions including looking at the real origin of the term "core conditions".
The facilitative conditions are outlined and compared against the "hidden conditions" or "counsellors conditions". Each of the core conditions is examined individually giving an overview of what part empathy, unconditional positive regard (ups) and congruence play in the counselling relationship. Rory shrines a light on the "hidden conditions". He gives an explanation of how psychological contact, the client being incongruent and the client perceiving, at least at some level, the presence of empathy and upr from the counsellor, influences the counselling relationship.
Use of Silence in Counselling Silence is a counselling skill that may be challenging for some students of counselling. Ken Kelly delves deep into the meaning of silence and how the skill can be used effectively in the counsellor client relationship. Ken explores how the use and benefits of silence may differ for the counsellor and client. Silence is directly linked to the counsellor having unconditional positive regard for the client. It allows the client to set the pace of the session whilst trusting that they will find their own way without the counsellor needed to lead or guide.