What we offer
We offer individual counselling services to a broad range of clients, providing the opportunity for students to develop their counselling skills in a practice-based research clinic. Being trained in a variety of both clinical practice and research activities, the clinic provides students with a valuable learning opportunity that includes regular mentoring and caseload supervision. Clients of the research clinic are offered between 4 and 20 counselling sessions without charge, in exchange for taking part in our research protocol.
Since its inception in 2007, the research clinic has become a highly regarded support service, being a point of referral for many external agencies. Our service has developed an outstanding reputation in the field for providing longer-term therapy for client presentations that require more than the standard time-limited 6 to 8 session protocol.
How does it work?
Counselling is available for depression, anxiety, trauma, and other personal or emotional difficulties as part of this research project being carried out by the University of Strathclyde. This support can help people to explore and make sense of their experiences, so that they are better able to change what they wish to change.
Following an initial screening, clients seeking support through the research clinic are required to complete an intake assessment interview, questionnaires before and after each therapy session, and to participate in regular research interviews. All sessions are recorded for research purposes, and all data collected is held confidentially and stored securely on an encrypted password protected database. Client consents are obtained for the appropriate storage and use of data for teaching and research purposes, and clients may withdraw from the study at any time.
Type of therapy
All of our therapists are trained in Person-Centred-Experiential (PCE) Therapy. Rooted in the humanistic philosophy, PCE therapy posits that individuals have an inherent capacity to move in the direction of a more fulfilling and satisfying way of living and being in their lives. However, this ability may become blocked or distorted by certain life experiences, particularly those that affect our sense of value. Aiming to be open and genuine, our therapists work to understand the individual's unique perspective and experiences, whilst valuing them as a person in all aspects of their humanity. This approach might enhance self-awareness and acceptance, promoting greater understanding of one's feelings. It may help the person to reconnect with their inner values and sense of self-worth, thus enabling them to find a way to move forward and progress.
Location of sessions
We offer in-person therapy sessions in the Graham Hills Building on our Glasgow city centre campus. Depending on preference, and counsellor availability, we may be able to offer sessions remotely (via Zoom or a similar platform). However, as there may be times when we invite you to come to the clinic in person, we ask that you live within travelling distance, which we define as the central belt of Scotland.
Core staff
Dr Susan Stephen, Counselling Lecturer (susan.stephen@strath.ac.uk)
Miss Kate Remshardt, Research Co-ordinator (k.remshardt@strath.ac.uk)
The day-to-day running of the clinic and provision of therapy is provided by a closely supervised group of MSc Counselling & Psychotherapy students. Additionally, therapy may be offered by our newly qualified therapists who have chosen to remain in placement beyond the completion of their training.
All of our counsellors adhere to the British Association of Counselling and Psychotherapy (BACP) Code of Ethics and Professional Standards for Practice.