Research Participants Wanted

I am conducting a research study exploring trainee counsellors’ experiences of working with clients who have psychosis and are prescribed psychiatric medication.

The aim of this study is to gain a deeper understanding of how trainee counsellors experience this work in practice, including the challenges, uncertainties, and learning that may arise when supporting clients living with psychosis. Working therapeutically with psychosis can be complex, particularly when medication forms part of a client’s treatment. Trainee counsellors may encounter a range of emotional, professional, and ethical considerations when working in these contexts. This research hopes to explore how trainees navigate these experiences, what support they find helpful, and how counselling training and supervision may better prepare counsellors for this aspect of practice.

I am looking for trainee counsellors (or those recently qualified within the past year) who have experience working with at least one client with psychosis who is taking prescribed medication.

Participants must be aged 18 or over and willing to reflect on their professional experiences. Participation will involve taking part in a one-to-one semi-structured interview lasting approximately 45–60 minutes. The interview will take place online via Microsoft Teams or Zoom and will explore participants’ experiences of working with clients with psychosis, including their thoughts, feelings, challenges, and learning within this work. With participants’ consent, the interview will be audio recorded to allow for accurate transcription and analysis. All information shared during the study will be treated confidentially, and participants’ identities will be fully anonymised in the research. Participation is entirely voluntary, and participants may withdraw from the study at any time without providing a reason.

If you are interested in taking part or would like further information, please contact: Jing-Hui van Houten, Nescot Collage Email.

Your contribution would help develop a better understanding of trainee counsellors’ experiences and may inform future training and support for counsellors working with clients experiencing psychosis.