Reflective Practice in Psychotherapy and Counselling

This volume explores the what, when, and how of reflective practice, positioning reflection as a vital tool for self-exploration and professional development in psychotherapy and counseling. It draws on research and integrates therapist voices and perspectives, self-reflective exercises, and experiential activities to support applied learning.

The book emphasizes the use of reflection to engage with core aspects of therapeutic work; including therapist motivations, the evolving sense of self, choice of theoretical orientation, building a therapeutic alliance, navigating the digital world, understanding therapist values, and engaging with diversity. The role of reflective practice is spotlighted in the context of supervision, personal therapy, and learning from clients’ perspectives. Self-care is situated within both personal and systemic contexts, with practical strategies offered to enhance therapist well-being and resilience. The concluding chapter reviews emerging trends and future directions in reflective work across training, research and therapy practice.

This resource is relevant for therapists at all stages of development and is an essential read for academicians, practitioners, trainers, and supervisors from clinical and counseling psychology, social work, and psychiatry. Readers are invited to strengthen their use of re?ection to critically examine, personalize, and own ideas that can nurture personal and professional growth.