Abstract
Rationale: To date, relatively little research has explored alternative practices to those of the mainstream professional bodies within the field of counselling and psychotherapy. Aim: To explore the rewards and challenges of being an Independent Practitioners Network (IPN) participant. Method: Seven semi-structured interviews and five questionnaires from a self-selecting sample were subject to thematic analysis, alongside the researcher's participatory observations. Findings: IPN is a vehicle for multiple areas of support for a diverse group of practitioners, who encounter challenges from its structure, a high turnover rate and external forces. Discussion: Despite the limitations of selection bias, the findings provide a rich insight into an alternative model of practice. Conclusion: The IPN and the issues raised in this study have implications for all practitioners. Areas for further research are discussed.
Additional information
Notes on contributors
Simon Campbell
Simon Campbell is a counsellor in Tyne & Wear. He has a history of working with disadvantaged groups and specialises in bereavement and childhood abuse. In 2012 he established Community Counselling Cooperative (CCC), a consortia of qualified counsellors and group facilitators. CCC currently works in schools and with individuals engaged in the probation service in Gateshead. Simon also supports children and families through Barnardos Orchard Mosaic Project in Newcastle.
Janet Grace
Janet Grace is a Consultant Neurosychiatrist working as the clinical lead in the Regional Neurobehavioural Unit (NBU) at Walkergate Park Hospital, which is an NHS service for patients with acquired brain injury. This service provides a behaviourally managed environment for people who have psychiatric and/or behavioural problems following acquired brain injury. The NBU works in a multidisciplinary model, and Janet works closely with psychology, speech and language therapy, physiotherapy and social work professionals. Janet has been a Consultant for eight years and over the last five years has done many reports for the Court of Protection, including some very challenging cases about capacity to consent to treatment, make decisions about residence, capacity to consent to sexual relationships and marriage.