This study seeks to explore how newly qualified counsellors conceptualise and experience cultural attunement, illuminating both perceived best practice and challenges encountered.
Cultural competence has long been regarded as good practice; however, contemporary literature proposes cultural attunement as a more appropriate approach to multicultural counselling practice. Despite this, empirical research on cultural attunement is limited. In addition, research suggests that many counsellors are unaware of cultural dynamics, experience discomfort addressing difference in practice, and that training programmes show insufficient emphasis on attending to cultural diversity.
There is an absence of research exploring the experiences of newly qualified practitioners who, with limited clinical experience and greater reliance on training, may face challenges with cultural attunement. Additionally, there is a lack of UK‑specific evidence. This study will add to the body of research on effective cultural practice. It could offer guidance for practitioners on best practice, highlight the nuances of cultural attunement and inform professional membership organisations and training providers of areas of support that may be required for trainees.
This study will use Interpretative Phenomenological Analysis (IPA). Data will be collected through recorded flexible semi‑structured interviews lasting 60–75 minutes.
The aim is to recruit 3–5 participants who have qualified within the last 12 months, excluding those who have undertaken any specific culturally focused continuing professional development (CPD). This will enable a clearer representation of knowledge gained through formal training programmes.
Interested parties will receive a participant information sheet. Informed consent will be obtained from those who wish to continue, through a signed consent form which clearly outlines the participant’s right to withdraw without consequence (up until the point of data analysis). Post‑interview, participants will be sent a debrief letter which includes the offer of a post‑interview debrief with a qualified counsellor from the researcher’s peer supervision group, should they wish to explore any emotional responses related to their participation.
Participants’ involvement and any information shared in this research will be kept confidential. Pseudonyms will replace identifiable information, and contextual details will be carefully reviewed to prevent inadvertent identity disclosure. A funnelling approach will be used during interviews, beginning with broad exploratory questions before moving to more focused enquiry, to avoid interference from the researcher’s concerns or perspectives. Questions will be designed to remain open and neutral, avoiding assumptions or imposing value, in line with recommended IPA interview practices.
Data analysis will follow a process of inductive reasoning. Interviews will be transcribed verbatim to allow close engagement with each account. Once all interviews are complete, they will be reviewed individually, with initial exploratory notes made on content, language and concepts. These will then be re‑read to determine emergent themes and sub‑themes. The final stage will involve cross‑referencing across interviews to develop master themes. The researcher will maintain a research journal documenting decision‑making processes, reflexive reflections, and emerging assumptions throughout the study. Personal beliefs, attitudes, values and reactions will also be examined in supervision to minimise their influence on the research process.
Throughout analysis, a detailed audit trail will be maintained, documenting each step from initial coding to the development of final themes, ensuring transparency and credibility. Participants will be offered the opportunity to review any transcript extracts selected for inclusion in the final write‑up to ensure their views are accurately represented.
To take part or view the participant information sheet, please see here.
