The intention for this module is to conceptualise psychotherapy as a research endeavour, demystifying and making it accessible for use by Person-Centred and Experiential practitioners. It draws attention to the common experiences of real-life re-search as reflection-in-action; with emphasis placed on both practice-based evidence and evidence-based practice in an attempt to support and advance professional practice. The module aims to assist you to develop a range of research skills and competencies to ensure you are able to engage in research on multiple levels: for instance, as informed, critical consumers of existing and emerging research: as students in training testing key research processes as part of your professional development and qualification; as applied researchers who integrate key aspects such as outcome and process monitoring into therapeutic practice; and as practitioners who bring scientific curiosity and openness to therapeutic practice along with and as an expression of attitudes informed by the underpinning philosophical and theoretical perspectives within the Person-Centred and Experiential framework. The module will familiarise you with the philosophical origins and assumptions of the major research paradigms. You will be equipped to design a project and write a research proposal relevant to the Person-Centred and Experiential theory and practice. You will explore the formulation of clear, practical research questions; data collection methods and research instruments; analysis methods, ethical approval processes and methods of dissemination. Specific attention is given to single case study research design, supporting your developmental agenda towards articulation of your reflexive philosophical stance and ethical clinical practice (see assessments for Modules 2 & 3). In addition, these experiences of research provide a basis for all assignments within the Independent Studies Stage, as well as preparation towards professional qualification and registration

Part A Presentation (PASS/FAIL): a 15-minute poster presentation outlining the chosen research project which meets learning outcomes 1-3 of this module. This is a formative assessment which ensures self, peer and tutor feedback; thereby providing opportunity to refine and deepen the formal research proposal and its ethical requirements (Parts B & C).

Part B Psychotherapy Research Proposal (100%): including a formulated research question, a brief literature review of key texts relevant to the project and a critique of an appropriate methodology with links to areas for ethical approval (3000 words +/- 10%). It is essential that this component meets learning outcomes 1-3 of this module.

Part C Ethical Approval Application: completed research ethics approval application form and corresponding supporting evidence, meeting learning outcomes 1-3 of this module (1000 words +/- 10%).

The submission will be considered by the Research Ethics Committee: who, when formally considering research protocols, will make one of four decisions;
i. approve and give a favourable ethical opinion
ii. approve and give a favourable ethical opinion on condition of minor amendments
iii. refer the application back for substantial amendments
iv. reject the application

This submission expands on the ethical considerations outlined in Parts A and B. In addition, formative feedback in relation to this assessment will contribute towards the completion of written work in the Independent Studies Stage (see Programme specific materials for further details).
Please note: the project must be awarded ethical clearance prior to commencement.

Total hours = 56
• Group process – 16 hours
• Experiential and theoretical learning – 12 hours
• Supervised clinical practice in small and/or large groups – 16 hours
• Self-reflective journal writing – 4 hours
• Student-focused activities encouraging active participation,(including accessing electronic systems and support staff for data, literature, resources and contacts, tutorials) – 8 hours

Total hours = 144
• Self-directed independent study including research, reading, assignment planning and writing – 74 hours
• Placement preparation and attendance – 30 hours
• Personal therapy (preparation, attendance, post-session journaling) – 12 hours
• Clinical supervision (preparation, attendance, post-session journaling) – 12hours
• Tutor-directed independent study (including workshop preparation) – 16 hours

BAGER-CHARLESON, S. (2014) Doing Practice-Based Research in Therapy: A reflexive approach. London: Sage.
ETHERINGTON, K. (2004) Becoming a Reflexive Researcher: Using our Selves in Research. London: Jessica Kingsley.
MCLEOD, J. (2011) Qualitative Research in Counselling and Psychotherapy. 2nd Ed. London: Sage Publishing Ltd.
SANDERS, P. & WILKINS, P. (2010) First Steps in Practitioner Research. Ross-on-Wye: PCCS Books.

• Poster presentation template
• Presentation Assessment Form
• R21 form

1. Demonstrate comprehensive understanding and critical evaluation of research methodologies and techniques and how these inform Person-Centred/Experiential philosophy, theory and practice. (Enquiry)


2. Demonstrate a systematic understanding of the emphasis placed upon both practice-based evidence and evidence-based practice in the context of Person-Centred and Experiential framework. (Knowledge and understanding)

3. Demonstrate originality in the application of knowledge when designing an ethically sound research project culminating in the formulation of a research proposal of relevance to Person-Centred and Experiential philosophy, theory and practice. (Application)