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Preserving the Integrity of Psychotherapy: Let’s Not Throw It Under the Bus

Preserving the Integrity of Psychotherapy: Let’s Not Throw It Under the Bus is currently available online in the PACJA Journal.

Abstract for Preserving the Integrity of Psychotherapy: Let’s Not Throw It Under the Bus

This paper delves into the evolving landscape of psychotherapy and counselling in Australia. Using personal experiences in the field, the author addresses concerns surrounding the conflation of these two disciplines and discusses shifts in training approaches, the influence of practitioners lacking proper psychotherapy training, and the dilution of both professions within health care settings due to a lack of national standards. Through the lens of psychosynthesis, the paper delineates the distinctions between psychotherapy and counselling and emphasises the importance of depth work in addressing complex psychological concerns and severe psychopathology. Additionally, it highlights the role of the therapeutic relationship and the nuances of transference in psychotherapeutic practice. The paper concludes with a call to uphold standards that safeguard client wellbeing, advocating for clarity in terminology and a future in which individuals receive support from rigorously trained psychotherapists.

You can read the full article here: Preserving the Integrity of Psychotherapy: Let’s Not Throw It Under the Bus

Jodie Gale

Jodie Gale, MA, is the founder of The Psychosynthesis Centre, Trauma Warriors™, The Soul Sessions with Jodie Gale Podcast, and Soul-Centred Therapy for Women. She is the Deputy Convenor of the PACFA College of Psychotherapy Leadership Team, a PACFA-Registered Clinical Psychotherapist®, Accredited Clinical Supervisor, Private Practice Business Coach, and Trainer and Facilitator. Based on the Northern Beaches of Sydney and working online, Jodie brings over 20 years of experience in private-pay, private practice. She has built two thriving practices—first in London, then back home in Sydney, on Gamaygal and Gadigal Country. Jodie is passionate about putting the soul back into therapy and specialises in eco-psycho-spiritual approaches to working with women, trauma, and recovery.