This research explores the challenges faced by counsellors and therapists who work therapeutically with perpetrators of domestic abuse.
While a growing body of literature examines interventions with survivors, comparatively little attention has been paid to the experiences of practitioners working with perpetrators, despite the complex emotional, ethical, and professional demands involved. This study seeks to address this gap by exploring counsellors’ lived experiences of this area of practice.
The aim of the research is to develop a deeper understanding of the professional, emotional, ethical, and systemic challenges encountered by practitioners, as well as the strategies they use to manage these challenges. By centring practitioner perspectives, the study aims to contribute to the development of improved training, supervision, and organisational support for professionals working with this client group.
The study will adopt a qualitative research design, as this approach is well suited to exploring subjective experiences and complex professional practices in depth. Participants will be qualified counsellors or therapists who have experience working directly with perpetrators of domestic abuse. Participants will be recruited through professional networks and voluntary participation following receipt of an invitation to take part.
Data will be collected through a one-off semi-structured interview lasting approximately 45–60 minutes. Semi-structured interviews will allow for consistency across participants while also providing flexibility to explore individual experiences and perspectives in greater depth.
Interviews will focus on participants’ professional experiences, perceived challenges, ethical considerations, emotional impacts, and views on available support and training. Interviews will be conducted either online or in person, depending on participant preference and practical considerations. With participants’ informed consent, interviews will be audio-recorded and transcribed verbatim for analysis. All participants will be informed of their right to withdraw from the study at any point without consequence.
Data will be analysed using a thematic analysis approach, enabling the identification of recurring patterns, themes, and meanings across the dataset. Anonymity and confidentiality will be strictly maintained throughout the research process, and no identifying information about participants, their clients, or their organisations will be included in any dissemination of findings.
Overall, this research aims to provide valuable insight into an under-explored area of counselling practice and to contribute to the development of more effective support structures for professionals working therapeutically with perpetrators of domestic abuse.
To view the participant information sheet, please see here.
Please email Samantha Dalton if you would like to take part.