It was back in February that I tentatively reached out to BACP with an idea for a therapeutic research project. I explained that I was still in the process of completing my Level 4 Diploma in Therapeutic Counselling, but that the idea of contributing to research was something that appealed to me from the very beginning of my studies. I'd spent Christmas and New Year outlining an idea for my research. Initially, I was just seeking a little guidance on how to get started. After a short and pleasant email exchange, I was encouraged to apply for a bursary to potentially attend the BACP Research Conference in London.

Applying for the bursary

As a trainee therapist who would be travelling up from Devon, the opportunity to get support with my expenses and tickets to the conference itself, was something I would be incredibly grateful for. I knew it would give me the freedom to be present for the whole conference, including the opening day at the University of East London, so with great enthusiasm, I made my application.

Being awarded the bursary

One month later, I discovered I'd been awarded an Increasing Access to Research Bursary. It gave me a warm feeling, as though I was no longer on the outside looking in, but that I was now officially part of BACP. I was excited to know I would meet new contacts and network with people who knew infinitely more about research than me – from students presenting fresh ideas, to published professionals giving keynote speeches, and of course, the members of the BACP Research team, who really do have a wealth of knowledge.

Preparing for the conference

In the build-up to the conference, I received clear instructions on how to claim the bursary, along with details about the event schedule and advice on how to travel to the venue. It was also made clear that the sessions in the main room would be recorded and available to watch for a period of time after the event, which helped me plan the talks I wanted to attend more effectively.

Arriving at the venue

I was grateful to be able to attend the first day at the University of East London. The afternoon offered a nice relaxing way to meet some of the speakers and attendees ahead of the main event. When I arrived at the main venue the next day, I felt instantly relaxed at the Marble Arch Hotel, which was stylish and functional, much like the organisation of the conference itself.

A smooth, joyful atmosphere

From an attendee's perspective, it felt like everything ran smoothly and on time, which is something I always appreciate. In truth, I expected to have fun, but the atmosphere that ran through all three days felt like something truly special. There was a core sense of humour that emanated from the organisers and spread through the attendees, making everyone happy and approachable. Networking at conferences can sometimes feel a little awkward, but this was rather joyful.

Feeling like I belonged

When speaking to others, there was a core theme that ran through those who were new to research. Like myself, they questioned whether they really belonged in the field of therapeutic research, and perhaps carried a little trepidation about attending. Yet there was not an ounce of snobbery from anyone I encountered, certainly not from the BACP Research team, who made a point of assuring all of us – no matter where we were on our journey – that we absolutely belonged there. Hearing this was worth its weight in gold.

What I took away

As a result, I can say that attending the conference has really allowed me to start understanding what research involves. I took away lots of answers, a growing list of questions, and perhaps most importantly, I left with the confidence to pursue my ideas. I also met some key contacts to help learn the moral, ethical, and creative aspects of developing my work in the right way, which is exactly what I dreamed would happen.

Why the bursary mattered

Without the bursary, I'm not sure I would have been able to attend the event this year. I certainly wouldn't have been able to attend every day. When you are studying part-time and volunteering as a therapist in order to complete your training, your income potential is severely impacted. When this continues for a number of years, those rare occasions when someone offers support becomes truly invaluable.

Grateful I reached out

Today, I'm left feeling supremely glad that I reached out to talk about research, and I can't thank the Research team enough for the help they gave me.

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