Stage Two (a): Clinical Training

What does the Stage Two (a) cover?

Over eleven carefully structured weekends, you will explore the rich diversity of TA therapeutic approaches, understanding how each school conceptualises change, assessment, and intervention:

Examples of course content

• ‘Neuroscience and therapeutic relationships - You will examine how contemporary neuroscience research informs our understanding of safety, attachment, and the social brain in therapeutic relationships.
• The therapeutic journey - The programme covers how to understand and map a client's clinical journey from initial presentation through to therapeutic resolution.
• Therapeutic contracting - You will learn the art and science of creating effective therapeutic contracts that support meaningful change whilst maintaining clear boundaries.
• Classical School approaches - The curriculum covers psychological games analysis, decontamination techniques, and classical TA approaches to understanding and working with psychopathology.
• Redecision School methods - You will explore self-actualisation frameworks, theories of fundamental change, and impasse theory as developed within the Redecision tradition.
• Cathexis School perspectives - The programme examines co-dependency, symbiotic relationships, passive behaviours, and reparenting approaches characteristic of the Cathexis school.
• Relational TA approaches - You will study contemporary relational developments including self-development theory, unconscious process work, empathic transactions, and the dynamics of transference and countertransference.
• Professional practice and ethics - The curriculum covers ethical frameworks, professional boundaries, and the responsibilities that come with therapeutic practice.
• Diversity and difference - You will examine how cultural background, identity, and social context influence therapeutic work, developing inclusive practice approaches.
• Therapeutic presence and dynamics - The programme explores the subtleties of relational contact, therapeutic presence, and the complex dynamics that emerge in the therapy room.

Your learning is supported through assessments designed to integrate theory with emerging clinical practice. You will complete two 2,500-word essays exploring different aspects of TA therapeutic approaches, alongside ongoing reflective journaling that tracks your developing understanding. A key milestone is having your counselling skills assessed and endorsed. You will also engage in regular reflective discussions with experienced tutors who understand the challenges and excitement of beginning clinical work.

If you begin your clinical placement during this year, you will submit a supervisor's report documenting your early clinical experiences and development.

What outcomes can I expect from Stage Two (a)?

By the end of Stage Two (a), you will possess a comprehensive understanding of how different TA schools approach therapeutic change, along with the foundational clinical skills needed for safe, effective practice. You will have begun to develop your own therapeutic style whilst maintaining grounding in evidence-based approaches.

Perhaps most significantly, you will have taken the crucial step from learning about therapy to actually practising it, supported by experienced supervisors and the solid theoretical foundation built throughout your training.

Our highly experienced tutors are committed to supporting you through every step of this transformative year, understanding that beginning clinical work represents both an exciting opportunity and a significant responsibility in your professional development.