How I became a therapist

Are you interested in finding out what a career in psychotherapy has to offer? In this series of pieces, UKCP members discuss their route into the profession. They demonstrate the different career pathways available to those seeking a career in psychotherapy.

Heather Dawall-Smith

Working as an art director, Heather felt a want for more and entered therapy for multiple reasons. Therapy then led to training.

Martin Weaver

Growing up as a gay man during the AIDS crisis of the 1980s secured Martin's sense of self, resilience and empathy, which in turn led him to psychotherapy.

Lorna Evans

While working in the video game and television industry, Lorna found herself drawn to psychotherapy training.

Silva Neves

Growing up in a rural area, Silva felt disconnected. It was only when he found his LGBTQIA+ community that he understood the healing power of human connection.

Eugene Ellis

Eugene's personal insight into the power of therapy drew him to the field of psychotherapy.

Paula Hall

Her fascination with what makes people happy drew Paula Hall into psychotherapy.

Hannah Sherbersky

Working in the NHS and private practice Hannah talks about the varying aspects of her career, including her feature in a BBC TV documentary.

Dwight Turner

Dwight discusses how he is challenging psychotherapy training and techniques to test students' prejudices.

Gary Bloom

Sports expert Gary Bloom reveals what lead him to train as a psychotherapist.

Alivia Rose

Introduced to psychotherapy by a friend, Alivia found a way to to open up about her deep, painful feelings. This inspired her to help others find healing.

John-Paul Davies

John-Paul talks about his transition from lawyer to psychotherapist.

Nicholas Rose

Sitting in the psychotherapy chair inspired Nicholas to pursue training. 17 years on, he continues to be passionate about the profession.

Gillie Jenkinson

After leaving an abusive cult herself, Gillie sought to help break the cult mindset in others, which lead her to train as a psychotherapist.

Suzanne Worrica

Suzanne was drawn to the psychotherapeutic profession long before she started her training.

Sam Carbon

Sam started her career in investment banking but after 25 years reached a realisation that her skills would help her make the transition into the world of psychotherapy.