Out of the trenches: An Interpretative phenomenological analysis of trainee counsellors’ experiences of courage in the therapeutic domain

Abstract

Counsellors are encouraged by the British Association for Counsellors and Psychotherapists (BACP) to periodically examine the internal values that shape the development of relationships with clients. Embedded within these values is courage -the 'capacity to act, in spite of known fears, risks and uncertainty' (BACP, 2016b) -a complex intra-and inter-personal dynamic, rarely the subject of conscious reflection. An interpretative phenomenological analysis (IPA) study using semi-structured interviews was undertaken with five counselling trainees, all attending a British educational institution and nearing the completion of their training. The research question was:What are trainee counsellors' experiences of courage in the therapeutic domain? Three themes were established as relevant to a trainee's experience of courage: courage as an expression of 'form'; courage as an ethical act; and courage expressed within systems. The review of the extant literature highlighted the multidimensional nature of courage and revealed the lack of qualitative evidence to support mainly theoretical findings. If counsellors are to consciously examine their own courage, it would seem valuable to ascertain where courage is needed and how it is experienced by fellow counsellors. The findings provide rich evidence of the embodied, holistic, and systemic nature of courage. This offers a resource for counselling trainers in the development of a courageous mindset as well as for counsellors themselves as they reflect on their ever-growing capacity for courage in their life and work.Over the last ten years, Lucy has served as a deacon for marriage strengthening and marriage preparation at her local Church and is passionate about welcome, inclusion, hospitality and creating spaces where people feel seen and heard.